Orchids are not classified as succulent plants. Therefore, the term "succulent orchid" sounds unusual. However, some orchid species have characteristics similar to succulent plants. For example, the capacity to store water and the ability to endure drought. This article explains about succulent orchid.
Introduction to Succulents
The ability of succulents to store water in their leaves, stems, or roots enables them to survive extensive dry periods. The following are the criteria that are commonly considered for inclusion in a succulent collection.
The first one is clear water-storage ability. These criteria can be seen as thicker roots, stems, or leaves. The next one is Xerophytic qualities or the ability to survive with minimal nutrients and water. The last criteria is compact growth. When grown, succulents typically stay small and compact.
Orchids Characteristic with Succulent Traits
The Orchidaceae family has between 15,000 and 30,000 kinds of orchids, making them extremely diverse. In order to survive in dry conditions, several orchids species have evolved to store water in their pseudobulbs, leaves, or roots.
1. The Pseudobulbs
Many orchid species have pseudobulbs that serve as stores of nutrients and water. This characteristic can be bulbous or stem-shaped. They enable the orchid to survive long periods of time without water.
The pseudobulb must retain water and nutrients until new growth starts because the leaves frequently fall off after flowering.
2. Thick Leaves and Roots
Some orchids store water in their thick, fleshy leaves or roots. Because of their adaption, they can grow on trees or in soil that drains effectively.
Succulent Orchid Examples
Orchids are generally not classified as succulents, but some species exhibit characteristics commonly associated with succulent plants.
These succulent orchids have adapted to thrive in environments with limited water availability by storing moisture in their thickened leaves, stems, or roots. Below are several examples of succulent orchid.
1. Pyrorchis nigricans
This Australian orchid is a semi-succulent geophyte with a succulent tuber that stores water. This orchid grows a single fleshy leaf annually, which dies back during dry periods, leaving only the tuber.
This adaptation makes the orchids survive in environments with limited water availability, making it an interesting example of how orchids can exhibit succulent traits.
2. Dockrillia
This genus includes several species known for their succulent traits, such as reduced, compact leaves and terete (circular in cross-section) leaves.
Dockrillia species are renowned for their drought tolerance and are often grown alongside succulents. Their ability to thrive in dry conditions makes them a popular choice for those interested in succulent-like orchids.
Dockrillia linguiformis is known for its ability to flower heavily and grow well attached to rocks. This species is particularly notable for its colorful flowers and ability to thrive in environments with high light intensities, producing shorter, more compact plants.
On the other hand, Dockrillia cucumerina often camouflaged against tree bark, with downward-pointing growth. This species is well adapted to its environment, blending seamlessly into its surroundings while maintaining its succulent characteristics.
3. Dendrobium speciosum
Dendrobium speciosum can be found in rocky habitats. This orchid can store water in its pseudobulbs, allowing it to survive dry conditions. Its ability to thrive on exposed rocky surfaces highlights its resilience and adaptability to arid environments.
4. Bulbophyllum shepherdii
Although not as commonly discussed as other species, Bulbophyllum shepherdii is another example of succulent orchid species with drought tolerance, particularly in its ability to store water and survive in dry conditions.
5. Mediocalcar decoratum
This small succulent orchid, native to New Guinea, demonstrates how orchids can adapt to store water in various parts of the plant, allowing them to survive in diverse habitats.
In conclusion, succulent orchids are an intriguing collection of plants that fall between two different plant groups.
Their capacity to flourish in a variety of settings highlights the orchids' extraordinary adaptability and encourages more research into the field of orchid and succulent gardening.