Essence of Orchids

Orchid Images, Growing Areas, and Orchid Culture Notes from from the collection of A'na & Paul Satara

orchid portraits

Cymbidium tracyanum

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Cymbidium tracyanum is an ubiquitous orchid in outdoor and cool-growing collections in central California, but rather uncommon in other parts of the US and world.  When I have posted photographs on Twitter, this species often draws attention as many orchid growers have not seen a plant … [Read more...] about Cymbidium tracyanum

Rhynchostele x humeana

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Rhyncostele x humeana is a naturally occurring hybrid of Rhynchostele cordata and Rhynchostele rossii.  This orchid has been easy to grow, potted in hydroton, in our cool room.  Even with repotting in the spring, this plant produced an outstanding flower spike in November-January, as you can see in … [Read more...] about Rhynchostele x humeana

Epidendrum chlorops

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Offering a plume of long lasting green flowers, Epidendrum chlorops is one of several hardy Mexican species that enjoys our growing conditions.  While this is not a large plant (yet), its first bloom, from a 24" (60cm) tall keiki is an excellent beginning. Epidendrum chlorops is native to Mexico, … [Read more...] about Epidendrum chlorops

Dendrobium limpidum

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As with many species from Papua New Guinea, the taxonomy of this particular orchid is a bit fuzzy.  Originally purchased as "Dendrobium limpidum (dichaeoides fat bulbs)", its label includes two distinct species: Dendrobium limpidum and Dendrobium dichaeoides.  We have three orchids labeled … [Read more...] about Dendrobium limpidum

Sarcochilus Dorrigo x Sarcochilus falcatus

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While the Australian genus Sarcochilus has become more and more popular, with an explosion of hybrids in a range of colors reminiscent of Phalaenopsis, the primary hybrids and species have become more scarce in horticulture.  It is uncommon for us to see a Sarcochilus species at an orchid society … [Read more...] about Sarcochilus Dorrigo x Sarcochilus falcatus

Vanda (Neofinetia) falcata “yellow hybrid”

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Is it possible to have an unusual color form of an orchid without some controversy?  The lovely yellow Vanda (Neofinetia) falcata certainly fall into that category of orchids with questionable origins and enlivening discussions. There has been reoccurring debate for years whether yellow Vanda … [Read more...] about Vanda (Neofinetia) falcata “yellow hybrid”

Paphiopedilum Crowning Glory

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While I find some orchid names are rather curious, this Paphiopedilum most certainly deserves the title of Crowning Glory.  When the flowers opened, both my husband and I felt humbled by the majesty of the orchid.  As always with a first bloom seedling, you do not know quite what to expect.  While … [Read more...] about Paphiopedilum Crowning Glory