Why Orchid Fans Around the World Know This Minnesotan’s Name
- Diana Pierce
- Apr 16
- 3 min read
When you meet Jason Fischer, you might not expect to be talking to someone who’s practically orchid royalty—but that’s exactly who he is.
During our recent chat, Jason casually mentioned, “There’s an orchid named after me.” And not just any orchid. It’s a Gold Medal winner, internationally recognized among orchid enthusiasts.
“That plant made my name known around the world,” Jason says. “And people are always shocked to meet me—they’re not expecting someone still alive to have an orchid that famous.”
Even more surprising? The orchid was named Jason by his father, a renowned orchid breeder. And it’s not just Jason—his whole family has orchids named for them. In the Fischer household, blooms don’t just grow—they carry on the family name.
Meet Phragmipedium Jason Fischer—a fiery red lady slipper named in his honor in 1996. While the first bloom Jason saw was a little awkward (he called it "ugly," in fact), later blooms were nothing short of spectacular.
This orchid went on to become a global rockstar in the flower world. It has earned 113 American Orchid Society awards, including a record-breaking 21 First Class Certificates (FCCs)—the highest accolade an orchid can receive. Think of an FCC like Olympic gold, and Jason Fischer the orchid? It’s been on the podium more times than any hybrid in history.
Trends & Orchid Culture
Jason and his Dad run their business together and they have seen the industry shift—from rare collectors’ blooms in the ‘80s and ‘90s to big-box stores carrying Phalaenopsis. Still, as he sees it, there’s room for unique growers like him. And younger collectors? They're diving into compact, rare orchids—especially those from Japan—perfect for apartments and urban plant parents.
Care Tips for Newbies
FIRST Rule: Watch your water! Avoid softened water—it can kill roots because of the salt. Try rainwater, distilled, or spring water instead. Here’s Jason’s tips for watering 101- https://www.orchidweb.com/care/how-to-water-orchids
Routine: Aim to water just once a week and use proper potting materials.
Humidity Help: Group your plants or set up a tray of water and rocks to increase moisture in the air. Jason’s tips for orchid care for beginners -https://www.orchidweb.com/care/orchid-care-tips-for-beginners
Workshops & Learning
Jason offers in-person classes and fun Zoom sessions with plant kits mailed directly to you. https://www.orchidweb.com/orchid-classes
Plus, you’ll find a robust care center and weekly tips on his website.
A Favorite Moment?
He recalls showing a “trigger pollen” orchid to a guest—it burst pollen onto her finger and startled her into a scream. “You shouldn’t do that to older folks!” she laughed.
Want to learn more or take a class? Visit Orchids Limited for classes, rare orchids, and expert care tips. https://www.orchidweb.com/
Orchid Clubs to check out:
Orchid Society of Minnesota - https://orchidsocietyofminnesota.org/
American Orchid Society- https://www.aos.org/
The Orchid Society of Great Britain- https://www.osgb.org.uk/
And finally, from the DP Archives, long before the ‘Jason Fischer,’ you’ll notice I wore a wrist corsage for my prom back in the day. Jason identifies this as a Phalaenopsis and it still is the choice of florists today for special events.
What kind is your favorite orchid? If you could be any orchid, which one would you be?
Please let me know.
Coming up in my next issue: A look inside MIA’s stunning Art in Bloom!
See how flowers bring fine art to life — and which piece I’m interpreting this year.
Thanks for reading and until next time- #bloomwithme
Diana Pierce
Diana Pierce Photography
Follow my Instagram account for more floral stories and photos each week. https://www.instagram.com/dianapiercephotography/
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