Orchids are a type of epiphyte (a plant that grows on another plant). They typically grow on tree trunks or branches, and rely on the tree for support, but not food. Orchids require a constant warm temperature and humid air. They also require lots of water to build up in the hollows of tree branches and bark where they live for their roots to absorb. They grow very slowly and cannot withstand dry spells or temperature fluctuations. Back to To Plant or Not to Plant? Metric Converter | Vocabulary | Teacher Resource | Back to Top |