ORCHID OBSESSION: Inspiration fresh for the picking

Falling in love with an orchid is by no means difficult. But neither is feeling intimidated to grow one. Well, worry no more. Orchids are surprisingly easy to care for, and you don’t even have to “grow” one to enjoy their beauty. Buy them as cut flowers and single stems, or create collections of botanical postage stamps or prints—the options are endless. Here are a few to get you inspired. t8n

1  Cymbidium: Cymbidium orchids make amazing cut flowers. You can buy a stem at most supermarkets, and it will last in a vase (happily neglected) for weeks.

2  Miltoniopsis (pansy orchid): Pansy orchids make great houseplants and will re-bloom without much encouragement. Light from an east-facing window and even watering suits them best.

3  Phalaenopsis (moth orchid): There’s nothing wrong with treating a potted orchid like a long-lived flower arrangement. Buy one with lots of unopened buds, and you’ll likely have blooms for three months.

4  Odontocidium: A hybrid of an Oncidium and an Odonoglossum orchid, these beauties look particularly stunning in tall terrariums or tablescapes.

5  Dendrobium: Dendrobium orchids are another cut flower favourite. Great for boutonnieres, bouquets and all things bridal.

6          Oncidium: Oncidiums are another orchid you’ll commonly find as a cut flower—and for as little as $2 per stem! Reminiscent of blossoming spring branches, they look stunning in a vase en masse.

7  Malagasy Postage Stamp: Botanical stamps, postcards and clip art make great collections of instant art. We bought this image from a royalty-free stock photo agency.

8  Boutonniere: Orchids make spectacular boutonnieres and are much hardier than they look. For special occasions, always order a spare or two for anyone who might have been forgotten.