These charming flowers belong to two related orchids, Stenoglottis longifolia and Stenoglottis woodii. They’re some of the easiest African orchid species to grow. The first half-dozen photos show Stenoglottis longifolia. Even though its blooms are small, this species can grow into a big plant. The flowers feature brilliant purple spots and a fringed lip. Dozens […]
The summer solstice brings the longest days and shortest nights of the year. Humans, like plants, love that extra sunshine. To help celebrate today’s solstice, here are more photos from Dave’s recent visit to the Montreal Botanical Garden. I’ve already devoted two posts to the garden, and there’s still more to see. No orchids in […]
Orchids love fog. That’s one reason why the Northern California coast is a great place to grow orchids outdoors. Frequent fog, especially in areas closest to the ocean, creates a perfect humid climate for cool growers. Orchids want at least 50% humidity. Fog occurs when levels reach 100%, and the air is saturated with enough […]
It was easy to find more great photos from Dave’s trip to the Montreal Botanical Garden. These pictures come from the Orchids and Aroids Greenhouse and the Tropical Rainforest Greenhouse. They include more orchids and lots of bromeliads. The Tropical Rainforest Greenhouse features realistic depictions of how air plants, like orchids, grow attached to trees […]
Even if it seems that Dave is on a whirlwind tour of the planet’s botanical gardens, that’s not really the case. He’s just traveling a lot for work, and he’s taking advantage of chances to sightsee. Last week, after a conference in Canada, he was able to enjoy one of the most impressive gardens in […]
When you think of Zygo orchids, think purple. Zygos are known for brilliant purple hues, rich scents, and long-lasting flowers. Alongside all that purple, their showy blooms include green, white, and maroon. These photos show just of few of the growing number of Zygo varieties, with many new hybrids on the market. The species are native […]
It’s a common belief that all orchids are delicate and fragile, unable to adapt to any adverse conditions. A few orchids may fit that description, but many others are tough as nails. This magnificent yellow Masdevallia fits into the “tough as nails” category. Despite any flimsy appearances, these big, brilliant flowers can withstand strong winds. […]
Identifying your Mother’s Day orchid is an important part of basic orchid care. Since Moth Orchids are the most popular varieties, they’re the best place to start. It’s likely that your gift is a Moth Orchid, or Phal, like those in the first row of photos below. This is only a small sampling of countless […]
Dave’s work travels gave him another opportunity to find orchids in Switzerland. He really hit the jackpot a couple weeks ago at the Botanical Garden of the University of Zurich. The garden houses 9000 plant species over 13 acres (5.3 hectares,) with orchids featured in three tropical greenhouses. In addition, there are Mediterranean, alpine, native […]
If you have a warm, sunny windowsill, and sometimes forget to water, Tolumnias may be perfect for you. These mini orchids have eye-catching colors and patterns. I bought this Tolumnia hybrid at last year’s Pacific Orchid Expo, and this year, it put on a great show with lots of brilliant blooms. Tolumnias are native to […]
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