Hybrid orchids
Vanda Miss Joaquim (V. hookeriana x V. teres) , probably the most well-known Vanda hybrid.
Orchids are unique in that hybrids can be produced by crossing different species within the same genus or between different but related genera. Hybrids are bred to produce flowers that are more beautiful and longer lasting than the parental studs. In this quest for perfection, about 1,000 new hybrids are created each year. At present, there are no fewer than 75,000 hybrid orchids in existence. Malaysia has been hybridizing orchids since the early decades of the 20th century, but it was only from the 1960s that this became a thriving industry.
- Information in the full article includes
- The development of hybridization
- A popular hobby
- A lucrative business