The name originates from the flowers of some species of the vast orchid family (Orchidaceae), such as Laelia furfuracea and Ascocentrum pusillum, which have petals of this color.The word Orchid derives from the Greek word orchis which means testicle, after the appearance of the tubers of plants of the genus Orchis.

[5] Displayed at right is the color that is called "orchid" in Crayola crayons.

In 2008, the color was temporarily renamed "best friends" for Kids' Choice Colors, before reverting the name back to orchid in 2009.

Displayed at right is the web color dark orchid.

Displayed at right is the web color dark pink (PerBang).