Orchids are undeniably stunning, with their intricate blooms and exotic flair, but not all varieties are beginner-friendly. In fact, there are several orchid varieties beginners should avoid on their first growing journey—not because they aren’t beautiful, but because they come with hidden challenges that even experienced growers sometimes struggle with. From demanding humidity levels to tricky dormancy periods, these orchids can turn a joyful hobby into a frustrating guessing game if you’re not prepared.
While it’s tempting to grab the flashiest orchid at the nursery or that rare variety you saw online, some orchids require very specific conditions—like cool temperatures year-round, constant moisture, or intense light—that are nearly impossible to replicate on a sunny windowsill or a typical indoor setup. For a new grower, these finicky species can quickly lead to disappointment, wilted blooms, and even dead plants.
That’s why we’ve created this guide to the 15 orchid varieties beginners should avoid—and more importantly, why. Each orchid on this list comes with a brief explanation of its challenges and an easier, more forgiving alternative to help you build confidence and experience. Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can always circle back to these exotic gems later.
Ready to find out which orchids to admire from afar (for now)? Let’s dive in and save you the trouble of learning the hard way.
Orchid Problems & Solutions Time Table: Why These 15 Are Hard for Beginners
| Orchid Name | Main Problem (When) | Why It’s a Problem | Solution (If Attempted) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Dracula Orchids | Heat stress (May–Sep) | Needs cool temps—indoor summer heat kills it | Use cool grow rooms or terrariums with fans and humidifiers |
| 2. Masdevallia Orchids | Overheating & drying out (May–Sep) | Sensitive roots rot in warm/dry homes | Grow in a cool shaded area with high humidity and airflow |
| 3. Dendrobium nobile | Watering during dormancy (Oct–Jan) | Needs dry rest—watering causes rot | Stop watering when leaves drop; resume when new shoots appear |
| 4. Catasetum Orchids | Dormancy confusion (Oct–Feb) | Easy to kill with water during rest | Let it go completely dry once leaves fall; resume watering with new growth |
| 5. Coryanthes Orchids | Low humidity (Nov–Feb) | Needs near-constant 80%+ humidity | Only grow in a greenhouse or controlled indoor space |
| 6. Miltoniopsis Orchids | Heat stress & dry air (May–Sep) | Very sensitive to warmth and poor airflow | Grow in air-conditioned or cool shaded spots with moist air |
| 7. Neofinetia Orchids | Misjudging cool rest (Nov–Feb) | Needs lower winter temps and less water | Move to a cooler window with less watering in winter |
| 8. Zygopetalum Orchids | Heat + rot (Jun–Aug) | Roots rot easily in warm, stagnant air | Use airy mix and grow in shaded, cool areas |
| 9. Bulbophyllum Orchids | Low humidity & stagnant air (May–Sep) | Roots suffocate or dry out quickly | Daily misting + fans + sphagnum in pots for moisture |
| 10. Anguloa Orchids | Water during rest (Oct–Feb) | Dormancy misunderstood; watering can kill pseudobulbs | Stop watering after bloom fades until spring growth |
| 11. Pleione Orchids | Dormancy issues & overheating (Dec–Feb, May–Sep) | Needs cool dormancy and cool summer temps | Store dry & cool in winter, grow outside in spring in mild climates |
| 12. Gongora Orchids | Drying out or too wet (May–Aug) | Fleshy roots rot or dry easily | Keep in hanging baskets with daily misting and bright shade |
| 13. Coelogyne Orchids | Overwatering in rest phase (Nov–Feb) | Some species rest—easy to rot during this time | Reduce watering and avoid repotting in winter |
| 14. Sobralia Orchids | Space & light issues (Nov–Feb) | Needs tall space and full sun—not fit for small indoor homes | Only grow outdoors or in sunrooms with lots of vertical room |
| 15. Habenaria Orchids | Watering mistakes in dormancy (Oct–Feb) | Very easy to rot bulbs during rest phase | Dig and store bulbs dry until new growth restarts |
- 1 1. Dracula Orchids (Dracula spp.)
- 2 2. Masdevallia Orchids
- 3 3. Dendrobium nobile
- 4 4. Catasetum Orchids
- 5 5. Coryanthes (Bucket Orchid)
- 6 6. Miltoniopsis (Pansy Orchids)
- 7 7. Neofinetia Orchids (Vanda falcata)
- 8 8. Zygopetalum Orchids
- 9 9. Bulbophyllum Orchids
- 10 10. Anguloa (Tulip Orchid)
- 11 11. Pleione Orchids
- 12 12. Gongora Orchids
- 13 13. Coelogyne Orchids
- 14 14. Sobralia Orchids
- 15 15. Habenaria Orchids
- 16 FAQs: Orchid Varieties Beginners Should Avoid
1. Dracula Orchids (Dracula spp.)
Why to Avoid:
These spooky orchids thrive in cool, shady, and moist environments with steady airflow—conditions that mimic cloud forests. Unfortunately, most homes are too warm and dry, making Dracula orchids extremely difficult to maintain. They wilt fast in regular household temps and will rarely bloom unless kept in near-perfect terrarium-like setups.
Better Alternative: Try a Phalaenopsis orchid—they thrive in normal home temperatures and are much more forgiving.
2. Masdevallia Orchids
Why to Avoid:
Masdevallias are loved for their unusual triangular blooms, but they’re also incredibly sensitive. They need cool temperatures, high humidity, and clean air circulation, or they develop leaf spotting and fungal issues. If your home is warm or dry, these orchids will struggle—and you may lose them even with good care.
Better Alternative: Try a Paphiopedilum (Slipper Orchid)—they’re better suited for indoor growing and far easier to manage.
3. Dendrobium nobile
Why to Avoid:
This species requires a dramatic shift in care during winter, including reduced watering, no feeding, and cooler temperatures to trigger blooming. Most beginners forget this or miss the timing, resulting in poor flowering. Without the correct seasonal care, your plant may survive but never reward you with flowers.
Better Alternative: Choose a Dendrobium phalaenopsis hybrid, which doesn’t require a winter rest and blooms more reliably.
4. Catasetum Orchids
Why to Avoid:
Catasetums are fascinating orchids that go completely dormant for several months. During this time, they require no water at all—a tricky routine for new growers to follow. Watering during dormancy can easily lead to root rot and plant loss. Their care cycle confuses beginners and leads to costly mistakes.
Better Alternative: Grow a Ludisia discolor (Jewel Orchid) if you’re intrigued by unique growth habits but need something simpler.
5. Coryanthes (Bucket Orchid)
Why to Avoid:
These wild orchids have some of the most bizarre blooming mechanisms—but they also need super high humidity, warm temperatures, and lots of space. Not at all ideal for a windowsill grower. They’re suited for greenhouses and orchid collectors with experience managing tropical conditions and specialized watering routines.
Better Alternative: Start with a Brassavola nodosa—easy to grow and uniquely fragrant at night.
6. Miltoniopsis (Pansy Orchids)
Why to Avoid:
Miltoniopsis are stunning with their pansy-like blooms, but they need very consistent conditions: cool temps, evenly moist roots, and high humidity. They are very sensitive to drying out and dislike temperature changes, making them challenging to grow in regular homes with fluctuating light and air.
Better Alternative: Try an Oncidium orchid—still elegant, but way more adaptable for beginners.
7. Neofinetia Orchids (Vanda falcata)
Why to Avoid:
These elegant orchids, once known as Neofinetia falcata, are prized in Japanese orchid culture—but they’re not the best pick for beginners. They thrive in cool to intermediate temperatures and prefer to be grown mounted or in open baskets with moss, which dry out quickly. This demands near-daily watering, high humidity, and excellent airflow. Without these exact conditions, they may fail to thrive or bloom. They’re beautiful, but better suited for growers with more experience and controlled environments.
Better Alternative: Try Epidendrum orchids—they’re hardy, bloom frequently, tolerate a variety of conditions, and are much easier to grow indoors or outdoors in bright light.
8. Zygopetalum Orchids
Why to Avoid:
Zygopetalums offer deep fragrances and vibrant blooms—but they’re fussy. They need bright, indirect light, cool temps, steady moisture, and high humidity. If you miss any of these conditions, they can sulk or rot quickly. They’re better suited for experienced growers who can monitor and adjust their growing space.
Better Alternative: Consider Paphiopedilums—they’re attractive, compact, and more suited to beginner care.
9. Bulbophyllum Orchids
Why to Avoid:
This is the largest genus of orchids, with hundreds of bizarre, fascinating species—but most are not beginner-friendly. Many need warm, wet environments with constant humidity. They also have a reputation for producing foul smells (especially during blooming). Managing water and airflow can be overwhelming for new orchid enthusiasts.
Better Alternative: Go with a Cattleya hybrid—they’re rewarding, fragrant, and more stable in care needs.
10. Anguloa (Tulip Orchid)
Why to Avoid:
With large, tulip-shaped flowers, this orchid is a showstopper—but it’s tough to grow. It needs cool nights, rich soil, and a distinct seasonal rest. These orchids often grow large and require patience since they may not bloom every year unless care is absolutely spot-on.
Better Alternative: Try a Dendrobium phalaenopsis for impressive blooms with less complexity.
11. Pleione Orchids
Why to Avoid:
These beautiful orchids grow like bulbs and need a cool dormant period with dry conditions. Watering them during this rest leads to rot, while skipping dormancy stops blooms from forming. They are grown more like perennials, which makes care confusing for beginners used to constant watering.
Better Alternative: Grow an Oncidium orchid, which offers seasonal blooms with less dormancy confusion.
12. Gongora Orchids
Why to Avoid:
These orchids have long, cascading blooms and love warmth and humidity—but they demand perfect conditions. Roots must dry quickly, air circulation should be steady, and any stagnation can lead to mold or root problems. Their care feels more like a balancing act than a relaxing hobby.
Better Alternative: Try Brassavola hybrids, which are easier to care for and still bloom fragrantly.
13. Coelogyne Orchids
Why to Avoid:
While beautiful, Coelogyne orchids can be picky about temperatures and light. Some species need cool conditions, others like warmth—making it hard to generalize care. They’re also short bloomers, and missing a few key care steps can result in no flowers or sudden dieback.
Better Alternative: Choose a Phalaenopsis for consistent blooming and fewer surprises.
14. Sobralia Orchids
Why to Avoid:
These tropical giants grow tall—sometimes over 6 feet—and produce flowers that last only one day! They require lots of space, sun, and consistent watering. Most homes don’t have enough light or room to keep these plants happy long-term, making them frustrating for casual growers.
Better Alternative: Go with a Cattleya compacta for big color in a smaller package.
15. Habenaria Orchids
Why to Avoid:
These terrestrial orchids are seasonal and go dormant—completely dropping their leaves. During dormancy, they must be kept dry, and even one mistake with watering can rot the tubers. Beginners often misread their “dying back” phase as failure, when it’s just natural dormancy.
Better Alternative: Try a Ludisia if you want unique foliage without the dormancy confusion.
Final Thoughts: Choose Orchids That Set You Up for Success
When you’re new to orchid growing, it’s easy to be drawn to dramatic, rare varieties. But the truth is: simple is smarter. Avoiding these 15 high-maintenance orchids can make your journey so much more enjoyable. Once you build your skills and confidence, you can start exploring the more exotic types.
FAQs: Orchid Varieties Beginners Should Avoid
What are some orchid varieties beginners should avoid?
There are several orchid varieties beginners should avoid due to their high-maintenance needs. These include Dracula, Masdevallia, and Catasetum orchids, which require specific humidity, light, and dormancy care that can overwhelm new growers
Why are certain orchid varieties not suitable for beginners?
Some orchid varieties beginners should avoid demand precise growing conditions such as high humidity, cool temperatures, or complex rest periods. These factors make them challenging to grow indoors without specialized setups.
Are Dracula orchids one of the orchid varieties beginners should avoid?
Yes, Dracula orchids are definitely among the orchid varieties beginners should avoid. They need cool, moist environments and steady airflow, which most home environments can’t easily provide.
How do I identify orchid varieties beginners should avoid?
spot orchid varieties beginners should avoid, look for species that require dormancy, specific seasonal care, or greenhouse-like conditions. Research their native habitat and see if your growing space can mimic it.
Can I eventually grow orchid varieties beginners should avoid?
Absolutely! Once you have experience and can manage light, watering, and humidity levels, you can try growing some of the more demanding orchid varieties beginners should avoid.
Are there resources listing orchid varieties beginners should avoid?
Yes, many blogs, orchid forums, and care guides feature lists of orchid varieties beginners should avoid. These resources help new growers choose easier, more forgiving species to start with.
Are fragrant orchids among the orchid varieties beginners should avoid?
Not all fragrant orchids are difficult, but some strongly scented ones like Bulbophyllum are among the orchid varieties beginners should avoid due to their high humidity needs and unusual odor.
Catasetum one of the orchid varieties beginners should avoid?
Yes, Catasetum is one of the top orchid varieties beginners should avoid. It has a strict dormancy period and can rot quickly if watered incorrectly during that time.
orchid varieties beginners should avoid cost more?
Often, yes. Many orchid varieties beginners should avoid are rare or slow-growing, making them more expensive. If they die due to improper care, the cost of replacement can add up fast.
Are Jewel Orchids part of orchid varieties beginners should avoid?
Ludisia discolor, or Jewel Orchid, is sometimes listed among orchid varieties beginners should avoid because it requires consistent humidity and careful watering to avoid root rot.
Can I grow orchid varieties beginners should avoid in a terrarium?
Some orchid varieties beginners should avoid, like Masdevallia or Dracula, may survive in a terrarium—but only if you can regulate humidity, temperature, and airflow precisely.
Should I avoid large orchid species as a beginner?
large orchids like Sobralia are among the orchid varieties beginners should avoid due to their space requirements and one-day blooms. They’re better suited for growers with more room and experience.
What happens if I try to grow orchid varieties beginners should avoid?
you attempt to grow orchid varieties beginners should avoid without the right conditions, you’ll likely encounter stunted growth, failed blooming, or even plant death—leading to frustration early on.
Are there beginner-friendly alternatives to orchid varieties beginners should avoid?
Instead of choosing orchid varieties beginners should avoid, start with Phalaenopsis, Oncidium, or Paphiopedilum orchids. They’re beautiful, bloom well indoors, and are far easier to care for.
Where can I learn more about orchid varieties beginners should avoid?
can find detailed care guides and curated lists of orchid varieties beginners should avoid on gardening websites, orchid grower forums, and beginner-focused plant care blogs like freeplantscare.com.
