Bolivian Beauty
While much of the Northern Hemisphere is baking in summer heat, San Francisco is cool and foggy. Our mild weather must bear some resemblance to cloud forests in the Bolivian Andes, because this gorgeous Masdevallia has made itself right at home. In the wild, this species grows on mossy branches. In our back garden, it grows mounted on the limb of a small tree, an Iochroma. This orchid was a gift from my friend and fellow orchid nut, Tony.
It’s remarkable to think that these beautiful blossoms weren’t identified by modern science until 1978. Dark purple markings could be mistaken for jaguar spots on a light purple background. Some of Dave’s photos capture the sunlight striking the yellow flower throat and illuminating the bloom.
The long, tapered flower tails stand out in the images of unfolding flower buds. Colors are visible on the buds even before they open, starting off the floral show with a hint of what’s to come. It’s an impressive display for a Bolivian beauty.
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August 8th, 2010 at 9:52 am
Wow! Those are stunning! Your so lucky to live where you can grow these outdoors.
August 9th, 2010 at 3:23 am
great photos thanks for the post
August 23rd, 2010 at 4:56 pm
the way the sun lights up the flower, it almost appears like there’s a lightbulb inside the flower.
September 17th, 2010 at 5:19 am
This just shows that Mother Nature is the greatest artist. I love the wonderful colors.
February 1st, 2011 at 2:03 am
What pretty blooms! This is such an inspirational place for a newbie orchid grower like me. Thanks so much for sharing your knowledge!
February 9th, 2011 at 4:56 pm
great post!