The Triumph orchid (x Laeliocattleya Drumbeat 'Triumph') has it all! This 2-foot-tall, reliable, lavender orchid bears enormous 5-inch flowers with up to 8 blooms per spike. Its lavender tepals (outer part of the flower) have dark magenta markings on the lip and a free-blooming character. Its hardiness indoors (and at USDA Zones above 9 outdoors) makes it a popular member of the Orchidaceae family. It is easily recognizable as the classic, fragrant corsage orchid. The cultivar 'Triumph' has been produced from the intergeneric hybrid (Drumbeat) between the genera Laelia and Cattleya. It blooms from May to June, is temperature tolerant, and does well in partial sun. The soil should be allowed to almost dry out between waterings.

The orchid family consists of a large number of genera, each with its own unique characteristics. A common characteristic, however, is the basic form of the flower, which consists of three petals surrounded by three sepals -- often in dramatic and contrasting colors and in a variety of shapes and sizes. Although some orchids are native to temperate zones, most orchids tend to prefer a semi-tropical or tropical environment (USDA Zones 9-11) and have epiphytic roots -- meaning they derive moisture and nutrients from the air and support from another plant; few orchids grow in soil. Orchids usually prefer a diurnal temperature fluctuation -- meaning warmer days and cooler nights -- though the absolute temperature range (cool, intermediate or warm) varies by genus and is consistent with their natural habitat. While requiring adequate sunlight for a stunning bloom display, most orchids will not tolerate sustained direct sun.

Many varieties have pseudobulbs, a portion of the stem between leaf nodes that stores water to help sustain the plant through dry periods. Other varieties are monopodial, meaning upward growth is from a single growing point.

There is an exception to almost every general statement one can make about orchids. The family continues to challenge taxonomists.