As plant and animal spiritualist Jordana Van tells mbg, there are over 25,000 varieties of orchids, and since they’re a focal point of several different cultures, a “general interpretation of its symbolism is challenging as there is considerable variety in its messages.” That said, there are some more pervasive ideas and themes when it comes to how different people around the world view this striking flower. For one thing, Van notes, many cultures associate orchids with love, romance, sex, and fertility. “In fact,” she says, “the word ‘orchid’ is a derivative of the Greek word orchis, meaning testicle.” And of course, this flower’s beauty is enough to attract plenty of admiration and attention, with many cultures simply celebrating it for its appearance. “Machu Picchu is known for its many breathtaking species of orchids, each of which, in addition to its unique beauty, has a different spiritual or medicinal purpose,” Van says, adding that in China, “due to their delicate fragrance and graceful figure, orchids are associated with ideal feminine beauty.” Orchids have also basically always been expensive—and are still a pricier flower option today. As such, Van says, they’ve long been associated with wealth. Before we dive into meanings based on color, here’s a quick glance at what orchids can symbolize, generally: Here are her tips for caring for yours. As such, these plants don’t typically do well potted in regular soil because it holds too much water and lacks air circulation. “Bark chips are often used as potting mediums, or moss,” Van tells mbg, noting that they also like a “buoyant” environment, in terms of air circulation. Basically, this just means the air is light and constantly moving, which can be achieved with an open window or a fan—just be sure to mind the temperature, as well. “When watering the plant, it is important to avoid salt-softened or distilled water. The water must be tepid, as cold water will shock the plant, and run through the pot for some time to make sure the plant is thoroughly soaked—and it must be allowed to drain completely,” she tells mbg. Other tips to keep in mind, she adds, include blotting the top of your growing medium with a paper towel to prevent any fungus or bacteria growth, and maintaining proper humidity to keep your orchid happy. “If moth orchids receive too much light, their leaves will turn red and even burn, indicating that they have received too much illumination. If they do not receive enough, their leaves will turn dark, and they will refuse to bloom,” Van explains, adding a mature moth orchid can bloom two or three times a year, with blossoms lasting up to six months—but only if properly cared for.
