What Types of Orchids Are Used for Corsages?

There is no corsage more coveted than the orchid corsage, which can retail for as high as $100 apiece or more.

They are a corsage to be treasured forever, as the orchid is a flower that when preserved properly, will serve as a lovely souvenir of an important event in your life.

The most common types of orchids that are used for corsages are phalaenopsis, dendrobium, and cattleya.

The cattleya is perhaps the most common orchid used for corsages. These are the most readily available and affordable and are easy to take care of at home.

Get answers to your most frequently asked questions about orchids used in corsages here.

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Are phalaenopsis good orchids for corsages?

The phalaenopsis is an orchid that is also called the moth orchid due to its shape. It is a lovely flower that blooms from December to May. Its hybrid flower can measure up to five inches in diameter and will have as many as five petals.

The phalaenopsis is a beautiful flower that can make a stunning corsage as a single flower. For a fuller corsage, adornments such as ribbons, jewels, and lace can be added to create a simple but elegant look.

The most common and most popular colors of phalaenopsis are lavender, white, yellow, and pink.

Some of these orchids will come with spots and other variations come in stripes. This color variation makes it very easy to choose a phalaenopsis that will pair well with any dress or style.

How can I grow phalaenopsis at home?

phalaenopsis

You may choose to own a phalaenopsis and try growing it on your own to make the cost of these corsages more affordable. Caring for this orchid is a very rewarding experience.

Care for phalaenopsis at home is most important during the months of December through May.

This is a flower that will give you some longevity. Each bloom can last for up to three months. The blooms will occur every two to five days and bloom with a natural arc.

This is an orchid that will thrive in full light but can take medium light if that is all you are able to find. It will only need water every one or two weeks and prefers humid temperatures.

Keeping the room temperature between 65 degrees Fahrenheit and 85 degrees Fahrenheit will keep your phalaenopsis very happy.

Are dendrobiums good orchids for corsages?

The dendrobium is an excellent orchid for corsages and to grow at home on your own. This flower carries the trait of a stalk that looks like a cane and comes with bright and vibrant flowers.

This flower doesn’t need much attention at home and likes to get what it needs from its environment through precipitation and humidity.

The bright green leaves on the dendrobium make this a stunning choice for corsages. You won’t have to blend the flowers with additional greenery, as it comes with its own backdrop.

The flowers are smaller than phalaenopsis at only 1 or 2 inches in diameter.

This corsage can come in a variety of pinks, whites, yellows, and lavenders. The dendrobium is also available in spotted and striped blossoms.

A common element to add to this orchid corsage is beads and pearls, however, any accessory or adornment will do.

How can I grow a dendrobium at home?

dendrobium

You can grow a dendrobium at home very easily. Watering is best done in the morning and only needs to be done every few days or weekly.

These flowers are like small pots, and you can let them go to almost dry before you water them again.

The best water to use for dendrobiums you are growing for your corsages is tepid tap water. You don’t need anything fancy for orchid watering. They like a lot of light from the south the most, but direct sun is never a good idea.

The temperature of your room for your dendrobium should be between 65 degrees Fahrenheit and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The closer your flower is to a window, the cooler its environment is to be.

Are cattleyas good orchids for corsages?

Cattleyas are definitely excellent orchids for corsages, and possibly the most common orchid for a special occasion. The cattleya is often called the queen of orchids as it is among the most popular choice of orchids for any corsage.

They also are favored flowers to grow at home if you want to grow your own corsage and create your own conversation piece.

This type of orchid is the best kind for a single flower corsage, but a few cattleyas peppered with greenery will make for a stunning accessory to your special occasion.

This corsage can be quite dainty, or very large, as the flowers can grow to as much as seven inches in diameter. The cattleya grows in almost every color but black.

Cattleyas will come with three very narrow petals and then three larger ones. Two you will see are very much alike, while the third is a larger petal with markings and a lip.

This is an orchid with specks and frills, and these fold into the base of the flower.

It is a stunning flower, but not so beautiful that it outshines the other types of corsage orchids. The cattleya simply offers a different look for your corsage.

How can I grow cattleyas at home?

cattleya and vase

The bloom on a cattleya is a beautiful one and can last for many months with the right care. Many orchid lovers like to grow their own corsage and maintain a bloom for a month or two before they use the cattleya for a corsage.

Overall, the cattleya appreciates warmth and light, and like other orchids, will prefer light from the south part of your home.

A pseudobulb at the base of your orchid will turn brown when it is maturing, and sometimes white. You can peel this to ensure good breeding.

For temperatures, cattleyas like a room that can range from 55 degrees to 90 degrees, and it will do just fine outside in the summer.

Cattleyas also need that drop in temperature in the evening but will want direct sun in the morning. You don’t have to water more than once a week.

Keep your cattleya on a plate with some pebbles and you will see your orchid grow.

How do I make an orchid corsage?

 make an orchid corsage

Making your own orchid corsage is very easy. You will need the bloom of your choice, which you can get from your own plant or from grocery stores, florists, or outdoor markets.

Green floral tape, some wire, and the accessories of your choice to accent your corsage provide the finishing touches.

You want a full bloom for this. One day ahead of time, trim the flower from its stalk and leave a tiny stem on it. You want the stem to be comfortable, but long enough to tape to your wire. You can always trim it shorter later, so err on the side of “too long” if you aren’t sure.

Let the blossom soak overnight so that the bloom stays fresh. Cut six inches of wire and wrap it with tape. Tape the stem of the orchid to the wire, and then decorate.

Do you want your own orchid corsage?

Whether you grow your own orchids or buy a corsage from a professional, an orchid corsage is something you will want to keep forever.

They are easy to make in just a few steps. When you make your own, you will have a personalized orchid that will pair well with any style and event.

If you purchase one from a professional, take the time to have a consultation before you do. Then, you can have an orchid corsage that is just as personalized as the one you would make yourself.

Which orchid type would you want in your own orchid corsage?