Florida's Ghost Orchid

[prem]

On a trip down to the swamps of south Florida, we were hiking in an area known to host ghost orchids (Dendrophylax lindenii) and happened to come upon an acquaintance from on-line (we did not know he would be there). Once he knew who we were, he proceeded to tell us of a plant that he saw with multiple flowers in a nearby area and offered to take us to photograph it.

It is very rare for this species to have more than one bloom per plant per season. Five blooms or more is exceedingly rare, as this plant is doing (three flowers, one spent flower, and one bud):

Taken somewhere in south Florida (location not disclosed to protect it from poaching):



1/6 second, f8, ISO 100, Sigma 105mm macro, Canon Digital Rebel XTi.

Enjoy!
---Prem

[Gena]

WOW!!!! Beautiful!
Great picture!

[Pantoufle]

That must have been an exciting experience. I still remember the first time I saw a specimum sized Epidendrum conopseum in full bloom in a Louisiana swamp.

[Marci in SoFL]

I can only imagine the thrill! Fabulous!!!

[fotofashion]

Outstanding, especially after having read the book "Orchid Thief." Good job keeping the location secret. Those plants always look so much more beautiful in their natural setting.
Beverly A.

[Joan]

Lovely. Looks like a dancing ghost.