Paying a fortune for a plant? It seems exaggerated... but in Victorian England, having an exotic orchid was almost like having a Picasso in your living room. Welcome to orchidomania, the most intense floral fever in history.

A tropical-scented madness

It all started with a tropical orchid that bloomed by surprise in a London greenhouse in 1818. In a matter of weeks, the British upper classes were already obsessed with these elegant, rare and hard-to-get flowers. To own an orchid was a symbol of luxury, sophistication... and good taste.

What was once the preserve of queens and explorers is now easier (and without crossing the Amazon!). Today you can have a beautiful orchid plant at home without risking your life in the jungle.

Flower hunters and dangerous rivalries

During the 19th century, there were real expeditions through Asia and America to find new orchid species. Orchid hunters traveled thousands of kilometers through the jungle with only one goal: to return with the strangest flower anyone had ever seen.

The competition was as wild as the areas where they searched. There was sabotage between rivals, plant theft and even duels. Yes, all for a flower. Stuff of history.

Orchids today: beauty without drama

Fortunately, today you don't have to live an adventure novel to enjoy an orchid at home. If you are looking for that exotic and elegant touch that changes everything, orchid plants are still a top choice.

In BonBee, your flower shop in Barcelona, we have beautiful orchids as our varieties Palaos, Manila o LimaPlants ready to decorate your space or to give as a stylish gift. Ideal if you are looking for a detail with personality and a touch of tropical sophistication.

And the best part: you can order them comfortably from home with our flowers and plants delivery service in Barcelona, even with express delivery in 90 minutes!

A passing fad? More like an eternal crush

Although orchidomania as such has gone out of fashion, orchids have never ceased to enchant. They continue to be one of the most prized and valued plants in the world. If they have stolen your heart too, you are not alone: we have been falling in love with their charm for centuries.

Sources consulted:

• Very Interesting: Orchid fever in the Victorian era.

• Wikipedia: Orchidomania