AboutOrchids

In Defense of Plants explains why Catasetum orchids really stand out. They have fascinating flowers, but unlike most orchids, these beauties have different male and female blooms. This puzzled botanists long ago, who thought that they were separate species. It was the famous scientist Charles Darwin who finally resolved the confusion. Darwin studied how the […]

A long time ago, when I moved to California from the East Coast, I thought it was spring all the time. Part of my culture shock was learning that the seasons were different here. Around Philadelphia where I grew up, we had hot, humid summers, and cold, snowy winters. In contrast, San Francisco summers are […]

If you love Lady Slippers, then the Slipper Orchid Alliance (SOA) is for you. This non-profit group is dedicated to conserving these incredible flowers, and educating everyone about them. Lady Slippers have a pouch, and include Paphs, Phrags, Cyps, Mexipediums, and Selenipediums. The SOA offers photo galleries, culture sheets, and a quarterly journal. Members can […]

The American Orchid Society (AOS) has launched the Orchid Marketplace. This new service connects everyone with the world’s top vendors for orchids, supplies, books, greenhouses, and even jewelry. It’s all in one place, with direct links to vendor sites. AOS members save a minimum of 5% on all purchases, and may save more with added […]

Blue is a rare floral color, but the vast orchid family doesn’t disappoint, so it is possible to find true blue orchids. Some feature brilliant tones, while others have subtle hues. There are also imposters. Blue Moth Orchids in the supermarket are actually white blooms which are injected with dye. Many orchid varieties with “blue” […]

Here are this month’s events with COVID19 precautions. It’s a good idea to double-check with the local orchid society before attending in case of last-minute cancellations. September 1 Santa Clara Valley Orchid Society Live, In-Person Auction, American Legion Hall, 1504 Minnesota Ave., San Jose, California September 4 – 5 Welsh Orchid Festival, Aberglasney Gardens, Llangathen, […]