People think orchids come from hot steamy jungles, and some do, but they also come from cool mountainous cloud forests and everywhere in between. ADVERTISING People think orchids come from hot steamy jungles, and some do, but they also come
People think orchids come from hot steamy jungles, and some do, but they also come from cool mountainous cloud forests and everywhere in between.
In Hawaii, everyone can grow orchids, but the key is knowing what kinds of orchid will grow at what elevation because elevation determines the temperature.
A good way to find out what kinds of orchids will grow best at your elevation is to visit the upcoming Hilo Orchid Society Show and Sale, “Jewels of the Jungle,” from June 2-4 at the Edith Kanaka‘ole Multi-Purpose Stadium.
The event is the biggest orchid show in the state and features thousands of orchids on exhibit and for sale, including types that grow warm, intermediate and cool areas.
Ruth Robison, Hilo Orchid Society member, says warm-growing orchids from places such as the jungles of New Guinea and the Philippines will grow in Hilo and along the coast. This includes Phalaenopsis, Vandas and many lesser-known types such as Bulbophyllums.
Cool-growing orchids from places such as the Andes Mountains and the foothills of the Himalayas would never bloom in Hilo but will do just fine in Volcano. This includes Miltoniopsis, many Cymbidiums and lesser-known types such as Masdevallias.
For more information about the show, visit www.hiloorchidsociety.org.
