Aerides

/ɛˈraɪdiz/ noun

Definition

A genus of tropical orchids that grow as epiphytes (on other plants) and have fragrant flowers, commonly known as fox tail orchids.

Etymology

From Greek 'aeri-' (air) plus 'des' (living in or on). The name refers to these orchids living in the air among tree branches rather than in soil.

Kelly Says

Aerides orchids are 'air plants' that literally grow hanging in the air on tree branches in tropical rainforests—they get all their moisture from humidity and rain, not from soil!

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