When it comes to the Best Hanging Orchids, it’s important to pick species that are epiphytic and better suited for mounting. Let’s explore!
Orchids come in dizzying varieties, but not all prefer to be planted in pots or in the ground. Several epiphytic species, and even some terrestrial ones, thrive in hanging baskets! Read on to pick the best hanging orchids for your home.
Best Hanging Orchids
1. Coelogyne Orchids
Botanical Name: Coelogyne spp.
The coelogyne orchid is a lesser-known hanging variety gem. With cascading spikes of fragrant blooms, it prefers bright, indirect light, moderate temperatures of 60-75 F (15-23 C), and humidity. Grow it in a mossy medium that retains moisture without waterlogging.
Often mounted on wooden plaques or placed in rustic hanging baskets, this epiphyte naturally grows in lowland forests and tropical rainforests in Borneo, Sumatra, and the Himalayas.
2. Vanda Orchid
Botanical Name: Vanda spp.
Vanda orchids grow on trees, shrubs, and rocks in forests, and are perfect for hanging baskets and rock walls. Growing upright from single stems (monopodial), its flowers are thick, waxy, and appear in a mind-boggling array of hues.
Epiphytic in nature, this species prefers daytime warmth, filtered sunshine, and 50-70% humidity levels. It needs frequent watering as it cannot store water. Keep it consistently hydrated and mist its aerial roots daily.
3. Angraecum Orchids
Botanical Name: Angraecum spp.
Angraecum orchids are monopodial epiphytes that produce white blooms with a nighttime fragrance. They need good humidity, so if you live in a dry area, use a humidity tray or misting system.
You can place Angraecum orchids in a decorative hanging basket near a lightly shaded window, where their nocturnal scents waft into your living space.
4. Brassavola Orchids
Botanical Name: Brassavola spp.
Famously called the “Lady of the Night,” Brassavola is the perfect hanging orchid for beginners. With delicate white blooms and its signature citrusy scent, this variety can tolerate slightly drier conditions and doesn’t demand frequent watering.
Place it near a bright east-facing window where it gets plenty of bright, indirect sunlight and airflow.
5. Cattleya Orchids
Botanical Name: Cattleya spp.
Native to the American tropics, the “queen of orchids” produces bright, bold funnel-shaped blooms in gold, burgundy, lavender, and so on! These orchids grow from multiple stems and produce pseudobulbs that store moisture.
It thrives in daytime temperatures of 70-85 F (21-29 C), 50% humidity, and indirect sunshine from an east or west-facing window. Direct harsh light will burn the leaves, and too little will cause the leaf to turn dark.
This variety doesn’t like wet feet; so allow the soil to dry before watering, and during its growing season, add a balanced orchid fertilizer for beautiful blooms.
6. Cymbidium Orchids
Botanical Name: Cymbidium spp.
Boat orchids feature long-lasting, colorful blooms with stunning variegated strap-like foliage! These semi-terrestrial orchids like a cool period to trigger blooms—preferring daytime temperatures of 75 F (24 C) and cooler nights at 50-60 F (10-15 C).
You can give them daytime temperatures of 65-75 F (18-23 C) the rest of the time. Their unique colors and variegated foliage are perfect for displaying in hanging baskets on your porch or patio. Plus, you can find many varieties of cymbidiums!
7. Dendrobium Orchids
Botanical Name: Dendrobium spp.
Dendrobium orchids have over 1,200 species, which makes them a versatile and beginner-friendly choice. These epiphytes thrive in hanging displays with filtered sunshine, where their roots can bask in good airflow. Here are the best hanging Dendrobium varieties!
Some species, like Dendrobium nobile, require a winter rest period to encourage blooming. During this period, you will see this orchid dropping its flowers, and the spike might begin to yellow; however, the leaves will remain firm and green.
8. Oncidium Orchids
Botanical Name: Oncidium spp.
Oncidium orchid species have fluttering, ruffled blooms—giving them the name Dancing Lady Orchids. Provide bright, indirect light and maintain above-average humidity levels. You can also use a misting system to boost moisture indoors.
These orchids prefer frequent watering might to keep their roots moist, but ensure they do not become soggy.
9. Phalaenopsis
Botanical Name: Phalaenopsis spp.
Phalaenopsis orchids, also called moth orchids or “phals,” are one of the most popular orchids for indoor spaces. While they are epiphytes, they also flourish in pots with soil. Phals like soft, indirect light, daytime temperatures of 70-85 F (21-29 C), and up to 70% humidity.
They don’t like to dry out too much between waterings—so keep it consistent. These beautiful orchids are a great choice for beginners who want to try growing hanging orchids.
10. Dancing Lady Orchids
Botanical Name: Tolumnia spp.
Another dancing lady? Well, Tolumnia is a type of Oncidium that warrants its own spot in this list! Smaller than most orchids, this variety adapts easily to different growing conditions but prefers hanging as its roots need plenty of air.
These orchids need indirect, bright light, 55-90 F (13-32 C) temperatures, and about 60-75% humidity. If mounted, they need daily watering but avoid watering them during the hottest part of the day.
11. Encyclia Orchids
Botanical Name: Encyclia spp.
Encyclia orchids have lovely spider-like blooms and are also adaptable epiphytes that thrive in bright, indirect light and moderate humidity. Their pseudobulbs act as water reservoirs, allowing them to tolerate brief dry spells, but consistent moisture is still key.
These orchids look stunning when suspended in airy baskets, allowing their roots to breathe and their intriguing flowers to cascade gracefully.
12. Foxtail Orchid
Botanical Name: Rhynchostylis retusa
You can also choose the Foxtail orchid. Its densely packed, pendulous racemes of fragrant flowers are a showstopper in any hanging display. Just look at the image above!
This epiphyte favors warm, humid conditions and bright, filtered light. It appreciates good air circulation and regular watering, but avoid allowing it to sit in water.
