Where to find monkey orchid

Draculas are very popular in hobbyist collections and many species and hybrids are now in cultivation. With the increase in popularity for a relatively unusual orchid, be aware that some sellers who claim to provide seed of monkey orchids actually send mislabeled seed that is not what they claim it to be. A further caution: orchid seed is dust-like and requires very specialized techniques and environment to germinate and then the plants will take several years to reach blooming size 3 - 8 years depending on the species.

It is better to buy an established plant. This group of orchids from the cloud forests of Central and South America, require cool, moist, humid conditions year-round to thrive. Many of the species will suffer and decline if temperatures are often above 80 F for any period of time.

That is a VERY high humidity to try to maintain in a home. These orchids are not recommended for the beginning orchid grower because of the specific conditions they need to prosper.

For more advanced orchid gardeners that have the tools to provide the growing environment, some of the easier species to cultivate are Dracula erythrochaete , Dracula bella and Dracula cordobae. There are a number of specialty nurseries that grow the plants but be assured they will not thrive or bloom if their conditions are less than ideal.

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Click on the link to send us an email:. The LuEsther T. Even better than its name or appearance might be the scent that is emitted from the monkey orchid. When this particular species of orchid blooms, it gives off a scent of ripe oranges. The best part? They can bloom during any season, at any time. There are more than varieties within the Dracula genus - Dracula amaliae and Dracula gigas being two of our other favorites-each a different color and shape, but all with that same monkey face.

By Erika Owen July 25, Save Pin More. Credit: The Launceston Orchid Society. Comments Add Comment. Back to story Comment on this project.