Tacoma plant nursery delights in finding the right orchid for everyone 

Submitted by Eugene Carlson

By Niki Stojnic Seattle Times Aug. 17, 2026 at 6:00 am Updated Aug. 17, 2026 at 6:00 am 

Michelle and Al Vaas browse an expansive aisle at Emerald City Orchids in Tacoma. (Kevin Clark / The Seattle Times)

SLIM GREEN-WHITE ROOTS cascade from hanging pots. Lush green leaves and pseudobulbs sprout from burled brown tree fern logs. Bright flowers perch along green or purple-red spikes. And rustic hand-painted signage tells you what you’re looking at: vandas, oncidiums, dendrobiums, bulbophyllums.

Emerald City Orchids boasts the largest retail selection of orchid varieties in the Pacific Northwest. The two greenhouses at its 3,500 square-foot shop envelop visitors in moist, tropical air. A riotous collection of plants includes everything from easy growers to rare species.

Families may come in searching for a new houseplant, while orchid owners come seeking advice. The shop also hosts classes, usually on weekends, which offer a tour of the greenhouse, growing strategies and tips, and repotting and mounting guidance.

If you think orchids are delicate hothouse specialties beyond your tending capabilities, Emerald City’s owner Joe Grienauer and his small team of orchid enthusiasts stand ready to change your mind. Anyone can nurture these beauties — some of which thrive on neglect — you just need to find the right one. (continued on page to or here)