Few of us in the Bay Area like to think we settle for the mundane. From food to home decor to hobbies, in all our domestic desires, we go for the unusual or the exotic. And so it now goes with orchids ...

Some need just a tiny amount of sun and water to bloom. Others flaunt their colorful petals in full sun even if they're in a ditch. A select few bloom only when secured to another, more stable plant.

Blooming petals and green stems of orchid flowers stood out starkly in front of the black curtain backdrop. Blue and red ribbons hung from the pots of awarded plants. Children and adults alike peered ...

Bobbie Lopez is typical of many people who find themselves with an orchid plant. She has received them from time to time as gifts and has placed them in sunny windows both at home and in her office.

Once upon a time, orchids were known as the world's most exotic flowers. Hard to find, harder to care for, and impossibly expensive - the only affordable orchids were the big floppy ones you bought in ...