National Orchid Day

April 16th is National Orchid Day. Orchids belong to one of the largest families of flowering plants. There are actually around 28,000 species of them. Even the vanilla plant is related. Yet, despite this wide range, the orchid flower is distinct and usually easy to recognize. However, they still come in an array of colors and the blossoms can vary.

I've always liked orchids, but my appreciation of them grew when I spent a semester in the Philippines teaching missionary children. Some of the gardens I visited there had such a variety of the most beautiful orchids. The humid, sunny climate with plenty of rain showers must have been ideal for them because I've never seen such healthy looking plants.

Orchids have long been prized the world over by botanists and gardeners. Besides growing outside in some climates, they make lovely corsages or potted plants and have a sweet fragrance that makes them important in the perfume industry. They're easily obtained from florists, garden shops, or even grocery stores. Perhaps you'd like to purchase one to celebrate National Orchid Day.

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