The prestigious Huntington Library Botanical Gardens in Southern California recently hosted the 8th International Orchid Show and Sale from October 18th to 20th, attracting a large number of local residents and out-of-state visitors. Attendees were able to admire hundreds of showcased orchids, including several rare specimens that are highly coveted by collectors.

Brandon Tam, the organizing representative for this year’s orchid show, highlighted one of the standout species: the Ornithophora radicans, a mini orchid native to Brazil. This orchid thrives in humid lowland rainforests, often growing as an epiphyte on trees. Its petite pseudobulbs and elongated leaves make it ideal for small cultivation spaces. The flower stems emerge from the base of the pseudobulb and can produce multiple blooms at once, making it a favorite among orchid enthusiasts for its charming flowers and compact size.

Another rare and stunning orchid on display was the Paphiopedilum Sanderianum, known for its extraordinarily long petals and unique flower shape. This trailing orchid is a dream specimen for many collectors, with side petals that can stretch up to 90 centimeters or more, fluttering gracefully in the breeze. The flowers are primarily light yellow or green with purple stripes, featuring a pouch-like lip. Due to its slow growth, it can take years of cultivation for this orchid to reach maturity. This particular variety was cultivated by Norman’s Orchids, a professional grower based in California.

Additionally, the Phalaenopsis hieroglyphica, a member of the moth orchid genus, also captured attention with its distinctive patterns and striking appearance. The name “hieroglyphica” stems from the designs on its petals, reminiscent of ancient hieroglyphs. Its white petals are adorned with irregular brown or pink spots and stripes, giving it an artistic flair. The lip of the flower is usually vivid yellow and purple, adding vibrancy to its overall look. With a long blooming period and the ability to produce new flowers continuously on the flower spikes, this orchid is a perfect choice for indoor display and is particularly favored by collectors for its unique markings.

The orchid show featured nearly twenty participating orchid societies from Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Diego County, San Bernardino/Riverside Counties, Ventura County, and Santa Barbara County. Among the exhibitors were Asian orchid enthusiast groups, including the Orange County Vietnamese Orchid Society and the San Gabriel Valley Orchid Hobbyists. The show continues on Sunday, October 20th, from 10 AM to 5 PM at 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino. For more information, visitors can check out huntington.org.