Day 106 of 365 Things to Do in Panama

Day 106 of 365 Things to Do in Panama. Admire an Orchid Garden.

Orchids are Epiphytes, which means they need a host plant or tree on which to develop. There are over 1,200 orchid varieties.

Peristeria, Dove Orchid or Holy Ghost orchid is the national flower of Panama and very popular during Holy Week. Peristeria comes from the Greek word peristerion meaning “from dove”. Peristeria can often be found in the wild near the edge of hardwood forests in many parts of Panama. Unfortunately, it has been massively over harvested and is now an endangered species. It is one of the most protected plants in the world with international agreements.

Volunteer opportunties are available through The Association of Orchid Producers of El Valle and Cabuya which is dedicated to the conservation of native Panamanian orchid species in danger of extinction .

Have you ever seen the 'Dracula Orchid'? Like its infamous counterpart, sleeps during the day and then after dark, it opens and comes alive!