The traditional distinction between Lan and Hui

Traditionally, the flower arrows sprouted from orchids (or called out) are called "orchids" if they have a single flower on a stem, while those with multiple flowers on a stem are called "Hui". Therefore, Chinese orchids are also called "Lan Hui". Huang Tingjian of Song Dynasty wrote in "Youfang Pavilion Ji":"One pole has one flower and the fragrance is more than orchid, one pole has five seven flowers and the fragrance is insufficient for Hui", saying that the distinction between orchid and Hui is not only related to the number of flowers, but also different in its fragrance concentration.

According to the book and practical observation, the flower arrow of spring orchid can have two kinds of flowers on one stem and many flowers on one stem; while autumn orchid and four seasons orchid have more flowers on one stem, but occasionally one flower on one stem can be seen; other orchids, such as primrose orchid, cold orchid, summer lily, etc., have many flowers on one stem, and have not seen one flower on one stem.