AboutOrchids

Orchids have become so commonplace that it’s easy to forget what an unusual plant family they are. With Phals, Oncidiums, and Cymbidiums at every supermarket, what was once strange and bizarre has become familiar. The orchid family, however, is full of surprises. Less common orchid species, like these on display at the Pacific Orchid Expo, prove how weird orchids can be.

Some orchid flowers look like insects or incredible flying creatures. Others have odd shapes. Some look like monkey faces. Many are so small that they are barely revealed by the zoom lens of a camera.

These bizarre species are the ones which truly deserve their finicky orchid reputations. Expert growers provide ideal conditions, pure water, and precise temperatures to coax these plants into bloom. They are much tougher to grow than the common hybrids of our homes and offices.

Each of these curious species has evolved to appeal to a pollinator. Flowers which seem weird to us are perfect lures to convince insects or birds to carry pollen. These bizarre blooms are one of the successful strategies that orchids use to survive in a crowded, competitive rainforest.

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This entry was posted on Saturday, March 9th, 2013 at 7:00 am and is filed under Events, Photos.

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