The Smithsonian Gardens Orchid Collection

2026

Smithsonian Gardens has one of the most diverse orchid collections in the world.

Fifty-six percent of orchid species face extinction due to habitat loss, climate change, and invasive species. Public gardens conserve orchids and protect rare and endangered species.  

The Smithsonian Gardens Orchid Collection includes 6,000 orchids from more than 2,000 unique taxa. It includes tropical, subtropical, and temperate orchid species and hybrids. The collection is used in scientific research, education, and exhibits, and staff select new acquisitions each year based on orchids’ beauty, rarity, and educational value.