Is an orchid a parasite or simbiosis?

I think you're referring to epiphytic orchids, which grow mainly on the branches and trunks of trees. Epiphytes are, by definition, non-parasitic. So, orchids don't steal nutrients from the trees they grow on. read more

Neither. A parasite ‘takes’ from the host, most often causing harm. In a symbiosis, both members of the relationship gain something useful or necessary. Orchids hold onto the bark of trees, gaining height to improve availability of sunlight, and they bath in whatever rain hits to tree. read more

Orchids come in all sizes and colors and with allkinds of aromas. Two features distinguish orchids from all otherflowering plants. First, orchids have a distinct petal arrangement.Second, orchids have a column that uniquely fuses the male andfemale reproductive organs. read more

A parasite ‘takes’ from the host, most often causing harm. In a symbiosis, both members of the relationship gain something useful or necessary. Orchids hold onto the bark of trees, gaining height to improve availability of sunlight, and they bath in whatever rain hits to tree. read more