Orchid is the largest flowering-plant family. It is often considered expensive and difficult to grow; although many orchid experts would disagree. It is also the most popular house plant, equal to the White Easter lily.

There is something about orchid that evokes special feelings from most of us. Orchids appear exotic, sensual, delicate and elegant at the same time. They are supposed to convey a message of innocence as well as refinement.

Orchid got its name from a Greek word for testicle - orkhis.

There are more than 28,000 varieties of orchids and about 110,000 hybrids today. The Phalaenopsis (Moth), Cymbidium and Dendrobium are among the most popular.

I usually buy 1 or 2 orchid plants every year, some year at the annual Rhode Island Flower show. This year I have not been able to find the pretty ones within a reasonable price range until today*. It’s a Phalaenopsis – yellow with red stripes, with many more flowers yet to open.

It is a real beauty.

*Home Depot at $24.99. The ones at Whole Foods were around $40.