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Orchids
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Orchids are the largest flowering plant family with an estimated 25,000-30,000 species. New species are still being discovered each year. From the coastlines to the high alpine mountains, from Arctic Circle to Tasmania, the orchid has thrived on every continent except Antarctica.
Most tropical orchids are epiphytes. They cling to tree branches and objects that provide support. They also obtain their nutrients from moisture in the air. However, epiphytic orchids are not parasites since they do not take any nourishment from the trees they grow on. To support their epiphytic growth pattern, epiphytic orchids have evolved certain modifications in their roots and stems. In some species, their roots were modified to become aerial roots through which they absorb moisture. Other species of epiphytic orchids have evolved enlarged stems called pseudobulbs to store moisture to tie them over drought periods. |
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The Pigeon Orchid, Dendrobium crumenatum, is the most common epiphytic orchid in Singapore, frequently seen on roadside trees. The orchid gets it’s common name as the flower buds resemble white pigeons. |
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Though orchids are abundant and widely distributed in nature, orchids have only been successfully cultivated on a large-scale since the 19th century. From that point on, orchids have become one of the most passionately cultivated flowers worldwide and a symbol of the exotic and the mysterious in the human imagination.
Orchids are highly compatible across different species. Many orchid hybrids have been created since the first artificial orchid hybrid was made in England in 1856. The number of hybrids registered today has already reached a staggering figure of 150,000 or so. As the hybrids are created from plants acclimatized to home growing conditions, these man-made hybrids have not only added new varieties to the colours and shape of the orchid family but have also allowed amateur orchid enthusiasts to grow orchids at home.
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The beauty of tropical orchids is now skillfully preserved by our craftsmen. Being presented in their most natural forms, the ornate of the flora is simply a pleasure to view. The Amber@rt collection is now available for those who cannot keep a pot of the exotic tropical orchid at home.
Each Amber@rt piece is a labour of love, glorifying the beauty of nature to the fullest. It is individually crafted to perfection and only materials of the highest quality are used in creating this lovely art piece. | |
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Orchids
