But Gordon said that isn't always necessary. Once acclimated, many will do just fine on a windowsill as long as they aren't scorched by intense sunlight. In return, orchids will provide colorful blooms, sometimes lasting several months. Some have intoxicating fragrances that resemble chocolate, citrus or roses. Others smell like dung or carry no scent at all.
More unusual varieties mimic the look of their pollinators, such as butterflies or bees.
You can find orchids as small as a fingertip, while others reach the size of a palmetto. The first week of July is a good time to spy these backcountry beauties, some of which grow only a few inches high. But don't try growing these natives at home, Gordon warned. I've tried, and I can't even get them to grow. But the plants are long-lived, with proper care.