Eulophia petersii (Desert Orchid)

Native from Eritrea through eastern and southern Africa, as well as Socotra and the Arabian Peninsula, this robust orchid grows on the ground or among rocks in seasonally dry habitats. Large pseudobulbs store reserves above the soil, supporting stiff, succulent leaves with finely serrated edges. Tall flower stems may branch and carry many musky-scented blossoms. Green sepals and petals are veined with purple-red and curl back at their tips. The white, red-marked lip has three lobes and raised, fleshy ridges. Photographed in Florida.