AboutOrchids

Illegal trade in wild orchids threatens many species with extinction. The first global study of the topic has been conducted by the IUCN Orchid Specialist Group’s Global Trade Programme. Orchids are being over-harvested from the wild for ornamental, medicinal, and food uses. Many are disappearing. In addition, endangered plants don’t receive as much attention as […]

In this turbulent world, it can be easy to forget that there is beauty everywhere. Yes, it’s a cliché, but it remains true. And if you can’t find beauty in your immediate vicinity, then you can certainly find it in these orchid photos. Let nature’s restorative powers work their magic. Happy solstice.

Which ones are Butterfly Orchids? Well, they all are. These very different plants have each been dubbed Butterfly Orchids, and that can be confusing. Common names vary, and that’s why scientific names are so important. With scientific names, everyone in the world can know they’re talking about the same plant. Common names are great for […]

Check out 11 orchid flowers that look like animals, including humans, at Looseferspeaks.com. Bee Orchids, Monkey Orchids, and Flying Duck Orchids earn their names honestly. There are also Moth Orchids, Dancing Lady Orchids, and more. They all appear to stretch the definition of what a flower can be.

When Dave and I moved to Pacifica a few years ago, our new home had a very sad front lawn, dead but for the weeds. Over time, we’ve put in a garden full of succulent plants and drought-tolerant natives. This spring, it’s full of life, with lots of colorful blooms, and a steady parade of […]