The difference between Phalaenopsis and Dendrobium

1. Morphological differences

The easiest way to distinguish between Phalaenopsis and Dendrobium is to look at their appearance. At first glance, the Butterfly Dendrobium, as a type of Dendrobium orchid, is not as beautiful as the Phalaenopsis orchid, but it is still easy to make a mistake if you simply distinguish it based on appearance.

If you look closely, you will find some differences between the two in the middle sepals and lip: the middle sepals of Phalaenopsis are large and round, while if you compare it with Dendrobium officinale, you will find that its middle sepals are small and pointed. The two have obvious differences in appearance.

Let's take a look at the lip. The lip of an orchid is also called the "tongue" of an orchid. The lip of a Phalaenopsis orchid will have two whiskers that resemble the antennae of a butterfly, while the Phalaenopsis does not have such whiskers. In addition, the column and sepals of Phalaenopsis are connected, while those of Dendrobium orchid are separate, which is also a very obvious difference.

2. Differences in growth environment

There are also significant differences in the growing environments of Phalaenopsis and Dendrobium.

As a type of Dendrobium, Butterfly Dendrobium mainly grows attached to herbaceous plants and does not grow alone. In the wild, it is often found on forest tree trunks and rocks under trees, and if you don't know much about it you might be surprised to think you've found an orchid.

In comparison, Phalaenopsis is much more delicate and has higher requirements for the growing environment. It mainly grows in high temperature and high humidity river areas or coastal forests. If you see a "Phalaenopsis" on the rocks under a tree, you must have "mistaken Dendrobium for a gentleman".

3. Differences in Utility and Value

In fact, the biggest difference between Phalaenopsis and Dendrobium is not in appearance or growth environment, but in their own value.

As a member of the Dendrobium family, the Butterfly Dendrobium can be used for ornamental purposes as well as being a medicinal ingredient. Its "relative" Dendrobium officinale is already a member of the traditional Chinese medicine cabinet. In addition, the butterfly dendrobium itself is full of gelatin that can penetrate the skin, so many cosmetics contain these beauty-enhancing ingredients. In this regard, Phalaenopsis cannot compare to the butterfly dendrobium.