These Rare Orchids Look Like Monkey Faces When They Bloom
Monkey orchids are a family of plants. And they all resemble monkeys.
Photo:Columbus GV Team
Mother Nature appears to have had primates in mind when creating these unusual flowers.
The Dracula genus of orchids, also known as the “Monkey Orchid,” is a family of over 110 different
varieties that bear an uncanny resemblance to monkey heads. The majority of Dracula Orchid Simia
specimens have been discovered in southern Ecuador and Peru’s mountainous rain forests.
Carlyle A. Lueren, a botanist, named the “monkey species” in 1978. Dracula simia means
“little dragon monkey,” referring to its long fang-like petals. Despite their obvious resemblance to
monkeys, the flowers are fragrant, smelling like ripe oranges.
These exotic flowers prefer deep shade, humidity, and, contrary to popular belief, cold temperatures.
Are you considering growing your own? So, before you begin, here are the facts:
It is possible to find vendors selling Dracula seeds on the internet. However, please be advised that
cultivating these seeds isn’t advised for orchid newcomers. Monkey orchid seeds are almost as fine as
dust and require special care to grow properly. Even under ideal conditions, it will take three to
eight years for them to reach blooming size.
Dracula saulii. Photo: Wikia
If you believe you have the knowledge and can provide the proper environment, here are some
Dracula orchids that are easier to grow: Dracula erythrocheate, Dracula bella, and Dracula cordobae.
Just make sure you buy your seeds from a reputable dealer, as there are many scammers selling monkey
orchid seeds online.
Photo: Columbus GV Team
Photo: A.P. Sijm. Swiss Orchid Foundation at the Herbarium Jany Renz. Botanical Institute,
University of Basel, Switzerland.
Photo: Columbus GV Team
But, hey, why would nature make a particular group of orchids resemble monkeys? We don’t know
for sure, but there is definitely a pattern, and it’s exciting to discover.
Hits: 489