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Cloud Forest Orchid Wikimedia Commons
Orchidaceae

Cloud Forest Orchid

Dracula vampira

Mystery of the mist.

Family
Orchidaceae
Genus
Dracula
Native to
Ecuador, Colombia
Bloom season
Spring, Summer
Type
perennial epiphyte
Height
0.5-1 ft
Sunlight
deep shade
Soil
sphagnum moss, epiphytic mix
Water
high
Hardiness
10-12
Lifespan
perennial

Did you know

  • The genus Dracula means 'little dragon,' named for the long tail-like extensions on each sepal.
  • Dracula vampira is pollinated by small fruit flies attracted to the mushroom-like lip of the flower.
  • These orchids grow only in cloud forests above 6,000 feet, where constant mist keeps humidity near 100%.
  • The flowers often hang downward on long stems, blooming beneath the plant rather than above it.
  • There are over 130 species of Dracula orchids, making it one of the largest genera of pleurothallid orchids.

Color meanings

0

enigma

1

rare beauty

Uses

  • orchid collections
  • greenhouse cultivation
  • botanical conservation