In recent years, following progress in industry and commerce, Taiwan's standard of living has increased. One result is that people have more time on their hands to devote to hobbies.

Interestingly, more and more people are raising orchids in their spare time. Not only do they come in a variety of different and luscious colors, but orchids also take up limited space; this, in addition to bringing nature closer to city dwellings, accounts for their recent surge in popularity.

People enjoy the orchids' green leaves as well as their blooms. The flowers are fragrant and elegant, and have a proud but delicate appearance. The orchid, queen of the green house, is the result of many exacting hobbyist hours of cultivation. Why do so many people elect to grow them rather than some easier plant species? One reason is the satisfaction of seeing their labor blossom before their eyes into flowers of deep rich lavenders, soft and tender, golden-yellow butterfly-like petals, or many other majestic tints. The ability to grow orchids is not a general gift but a unique talent which more and more people are seriously attempting to cultivate.

Although a special interest in orchids has developed only in the last two decades in Taiwan, orchids have had a long history in China. The ancients used terms like "stately" and "majestic" to describe their magnificence. Confucius referred to them in his writings alongside references to rulers and princes as symbols of elegance and purity. Allusions to their grandeur abound in poetry, and they grace many a painting.

There are many varieties of orchids. Chinese native orchids are not multi-colored; their petals are delicate, long, soft, and fragrant. Imported orchids from the West, however, are broad and wide; the bud is larger, and the flower comes in various colors.

The price for a full-grown orchid of average qualities is only a few dollars. But a very rare orchid, rich in color with bright green, rigid stalks and strong but delicate-looking flowers, full of lustre and without any imperfection whatsoever can command thousands of dollars.

Since orchid growing has become popular, in addition to the Taiwan Orchid Society, many cities and towns, have formed orchid fanciers' groups. But the Taiwan Orchid Society is foremost. Established in 1962, it has 400 members and publishes a bimonthly bulletin containing pictures of orchids; it introduces new hybrids and species, discusses techniques of orchid growing, gives expert tips, and reports activities in the orchid world. The Society runs two shows a year where judging takes place. Both members and non-members may enter.

Orchids, like other flowering plants, work wonders in brightening up a drab room or in adding color to a dull life. They are sure attention getters and never fail as "conversation pieces." The owner with a green thumb reaps harvests of praise.

[Picture Caption]

1. Orchids cultivated in pots. 2. 3. 4. These orchids imported from the west, are commonly found around Taiwan. 5. "Grass" orchids. 6. Orchids are noted for their proud and august appearance.

1. The rose colored "dancing" Phal. Zanda orchid. 2. A majestic lavender orchid. 3.-7. Different varieties of orchids, all with their own unique form and character. 8. The beautiful white Phal. Lucky Lady.

These beautiful orchids are rich in color and come in many different varieties. They are often used as decorative blows.

These orchids imported from the west, are commonly found around Taiwan.

These orchids imported from the west, are commonly found around Taiwan.

These orchids imported from the west, are commonly found around Taiwan.

Grass" orchids.

Orchids are noted for their proud and august appearance.

Different varieties of orchids, all with their own unique form and character.

Different varieties of orchids, all with their own unique form and character.

Different varieties of orchids, all with their own unique form and character.

The rose colored "dancing" Phal. Zanda orchid.

A majestic lavender orchid.

Different varieties of orchids, all with their own unique form and character.

Different varieties of orchids, all with their own unique form and character.

The beautiful white Phal. Lucky Lady.

These beautiful orchids are rich in color and come in many different varieties. They are often used as decorative blows.

These beautiful orchids are rich in color and come in many different varieties. They are often used as decorative blows.

These beautiful orchids are rich in color and come in many different varieties. They are often used as decorative blows.