Surprises at the Peninsula Orchid Society Show

Chaubardia heteroclite, orchid species flowers, weird flowers, Peninsula Orchid Society Show 2025, San Mateo, CaliforniaChaubardia heteroclite, orchid species flower, close up of weird flower lip, Peninsula Orchid Society Show 2025, San Mateo, CaliforniaAganisia cyanea, orchid species flower, white and purple flower, Peninsula Orchid Society Show 2025, San Mateo, California

Earlier this month, Dave and I headed to the Peninsula Orchid Society Show in nearby San Mateo. This event has repeatedly shown that small displays can be really spectacular, and this year did not disappoint. It was full of great flowers, unusual species, and new hybrids. The first row of photos above features two species that I don’t think I’ve ever seen in person before. There’s a Chaubardia, an interesting orchid with a strange lip resembling scary purple teeth. It seems appropriate for the month of ghouls and ghosts. In addition, the lovely white and purple Aganisia is in the Zygo family, and an important parent of many purple hybrids. These uncommon orchids with brilliant blooms were pleasant surprises.

Pecteilis radiata, Habenaria radiata, White Egret Orchid, orchid species flowers, flowers resembling flying birds, white flowers, Peninsula Orchid Society Show 2025, San Mateo, CaliforniaRossioglossum grande, Tiger Orchid, orchid species flowers, large yellow brown and white flowers, Peninsula Orchid Society Show 2025, San Mateo, CaliforniaHabenaria medusa, orchid species flowers, weird flowers, Peninsula Orchid Society Show 2025, San Mateo, California

Paphiopedilum Barbara Rechberger, orchid hybrid flower, Paph, Lady Slipper Orchid with large slipper pouch, side view of flower, Peninsula Orchid Society Show 2025, San Mateo, CaliforniaCymbidium haematodes, orchid species flower, Peninsula Orchid Society Show 2025, San Mateo, CaliforniaRhyncholaeliocattleya Dick Smith 'Paradise', cattleya orchid hybrid flower, large colorful flower with fringed lip, Peninsula Orchid Society Show 2025, San Mateo, California

They were far from the only highlights, and the room was packed with ribbons and awards. There were graceful white Habenaria flowers like birds in flight, and enormous Cattleya blooms that looked as delicious as candy. It’s not easy to pick a favorite. Check back here soon for more photos from the show.

Zygo orchid hybrid flowers, purple green and reddish brown flowers, Peninsula Orchid Society Show 2025, San Mateo, CaliforniaTolumnia Jairak Flyer 'Gules', orchid hybrid flowers, red flowers, mini orchid, Peninsula Orchid Society Show 2025, San Mateo, CaliforniaHaraella retrocalla, orchid species flowers, mini orchid, Peninsula Orchid Society Show 2025, San Mateo, California

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