Warning: these orchids are about to impress you as no other plant has ever done. The monkey-faced orchids are a rather popular, but very rare orchid type, attributed to their appearance. If you ever get the chance to cross paths with a monkey-faced orchid, you'll notice a real-looking monkey face in its center. Read on to know everything about these very rare orchids.
Do Monkey-Faced Orchids Really Exist? You Bet!
Yes, the rumors are true. Monkey-faced orchids actually exist and inhabit the tropical highland forests of Ecuador and Peru. To be lucky to see them is an understatement because we've never heard of any flower that lets you see the cutest monkey-looking image right in the center.
Although there are a couple of rare monkey-faced orchids, we're here to fill you in on all the gaps about them. Any monkey fans around? You'll want to travel all the way to South America just to see them.
An Explosion of Monkey Love in a Flower
Of the 120 species in the dracula orchid family, most of which are found in Ecuador and Peru, many are not seasonal blooms and can flower at any time throughout the year. One of the most popular though is the Dracula Simia.
The botanical name refers to dracula meaning “little dragon”, and simia which makes reference to a monkey's face. Could you imagine having an orchid to stare at every day with a center-filled monkey face? Absolutely gorgeous.
Characteristics of the Monkey-Faced Orchid
These adorable tiny friends' lengthy faces, which are made up of numerous long petals, will definitely win your heart.
While the flower's center may resemble those of our distant relatives, the term refers to the two lengthy sepals that are found at the base of the petals and cover the flower's growing bud. This is what indeed gives it the monkey-looking face sprouted in the middle of the flower.
Monkey-Faced Orchids Have a Pleasant Fragrance
The aroma that the monkey orchid emits may be more appealing than its name or appearance. This specific species of orchid emits the aroma of ripe oranges as it blooms. What's best? Any time of year, in any season, they can blossom.
Where Do Monkey-Faced Orchids Thrive and What Are the Appropriate Care Measures?
These adorable flowers do best when placed in spaces that have cool temperatures and partial shade. They are a type of species that does need a lot of care and love for it to keep their happy monkey-face alive for long periods of time. If you decide to get one of these beauties, here are a few tips to keep in mind.
Temperature
Plant monkey-faced orchids in a cool, damp, shady, and very humid place. Ideal temperatures range from 42°F to 46°F (6°C to 8°C) and 66°F to 68°F (19°C to 20°C).
Watering
Your containers must allow for adequate drainage because only like this your monkey orchid will thrive. Watering and mist spraying is vital to keep your orchid alive and its blooming petals in beautiful conditions.
Soil
The ideal type of soil for monkey face orchids is orchid-specific soil. Orchid soil does not contain soil or sand but is made up of a combination of chunky ingredients that are close to its natural environment.
You can possibly buy orchid soil at your local nursery if they are geared up for these specific plants.
From 1-10, how cute would you rate the Dracula Simia monkey-faced orchid? On our view, it's definitely a 10.
