Identifying orchids by sight

[Depau]

This is either going to be a very wise question, or it is going to be decidedly dumb. Unfortunately, I don't feel very wise.

QUESTION:

Can an orchid be identified by phenotype?

STATEMENT:

Over the period of several months I see many orchids being sold in supermarkets without names, and I am anxious to identify them.

Depau

[kiki-do]

This is a very wise question, as there are absolutely no dumb questions. You can tell what type of orchid it is, but won't be able narrow it down to specifics unless they are labeled. Hope this helped.

[cb977]

A genus can usually be identified easily. A species of any particular genus can be identified more easily than a hybrid...

I think

[Depau]

Thanks, I was afraid that was going to b e the answer. I know second cousins in dogs and humans can look more alike than brothers or sisters. Strange, but understandable.
Thanks again,
Depau

[Ross]

As for your question, I think the answer is "sometimes". As for most "grocery store types" then yes, they will generally be one of three genera (Phalenopsis, Dendrobium or Paphiopedilum). There are exceptions as I have seen some multigenric crosses like Beallara as well. But generally you will see one of the three I listed first most often. Learning to see the differences is actually pretty much a case of study.

[Depau]

I have bought quite a few Beallara, Potinara, Vulkystera, Brasada, Brassia and Phapiopedilums along with the a few Dendrobiums and Phalaenopsis. Most other genera are labelled, but Phals are the ones no one seems to care if they are named or not. The species are usually named, but the miniature Phals. seem to my biggest problems.

I have passed on the Miltonia, but think I will try them.

Thanks for the input,
Depau