The orchid flower has a rich and diverse history throughout popular culture, and orchid tattoos are as a result a powerful—and varied—source of symbolism. The word “orchid” is rooted in sexuality and desire, thanks to the Greek root of its name, “orchis,” which means “testicle,” as noted by the Vanishing Tattoo website. But the orchid has also been associated with the feminine and with concepts of love and beauty.Cattleyas
A popular orchid design is based on the cattleyas, exotic orchids from Central America. The cattleyas have leathery leaves and are known for their so-called pseudo-bulbs, which sprout from the plant’s base each year. The color of these orchids tends to be green, purple or white, as noted by the North of England Orchid Society. A cattleya design symbolizes warmth and affection.
Colors
Orchids have been found in pinks, blues and yellows. So getting an orchid tattoo offers choices when it comes to the color of the flower design. You might want to experiment with magentas or reds.
Monochrome
While orchids come in hundreds of varieties and colors, sometimes the feel and symbolism of the flower is really brought out by the use of striking monochrome. An orchid in blacks, grays and whites can achieve a mysterious, beautiful effect.
Plant Combinations
Many fans of the orchid will want to combine the flower with other objects, plants or perhaps other flowers as part of their tattoo design. One option is to entwine bamboo, vines or a tree trunk with the orchid in the design, which adds to the natural feel of the tattoo, giving the impression of the orchid being part of a living garden.
Bold Designs
Flower designs are often thought of as bold, confident and ideal for “showing off,” so an orchid design that occupies a large area or is in a prominent place, for example, across the whole of an individual’s back or across a thigh, not only gets attention but also communicates just how bold and daring the person is.
Moth Orchids
A common type of orchid grown domestically or found in the wild, the moth orchid is also known as the Phalaenopsis orchid. It’s a very graceful version of the flower, characterized by its spikes and its white or purple colour, which lend a gentle brightness to any tattoo design.
