Most orchids in this category are from temperate regions. Although it grows in the tropics, the Paphiopedilum genus belongs in this group. Epiphytic orchids grow on other plants, although they are not parasitic. They are mostly native to the tropics. The Phalaenopsis and Cattleya genera belong to this group.
Lithophytic orchids grow in cracks in rocks.
The Laelia genus includes some species with this growth habit. Orchids may also be classified according to their pattern of growth . Sympodial orchids produce new shoots from the base of old ones. They develop pseudobulbs , i.e. thickened parts of their stems for storing water and nutrients. These structures allow the plant to become dormant during periods of drought.