The Illinois Orchid Society Show

Phalaenopsis Taida King's Caroline

It's said there are more species of orchid than any other plant on Earth, with the possible exception of asters.

After attending "Spring Into Orchids," the Illinois Orchid Society show at the Chicago Botanic Garden this past weekend, I'd have to agree.

There were all colors, shapes and sizes -- everything from the more traditional Phalaenopsis and Cattleya orchids to lady slippers and pansy varieties. There was even one with a fuzzy white flower unlike anything I'd ever seen before -- a Rhyncolaelia.

I dearly love orchids, the way they provide a burst of color in late winter/early spring, just before the tulips and daffodils start coming into their own. Unfortunately, orchids don't seem to do well in my house. It may have something to do with my light exposure or getting the temperatures low enough to set the buds. I'm not sure.

So I usually go to this sale every year and buy an orchid, assuming it will be a sort of long-lasting cut flower. Who knows? One of these days I may actually get one to survive and even rebloom.  I'll definitely keep trying!

As you can probably tell from the photos below, I also love to take pictures of orchids so I can remember their beauty throughout the year. I hope you enjoy them.



Doritaenopsis Sin-Yaun Golden Beauty

Laelia purpurata

Vanda Sansai Blue 'Acker's Price'

A pansy orchid, Miltoniopsis Pearl Ono

 

 

Phagmipedium Suzanna Decker

Phalaenopsis Winter Carnival Carousel

Cattleya Blc Triumphal Coronation 'Seven Star'

Phalaenopsis Baldan's Kaleidescope 'Golden Treasure'



Iwanagara Appleblossom

Paphiopedilum kolopakingii

The strangest orchid at the show, Rhyncolaelia

By Karen Geisler