Cattleya trianae (Christmas Orchid)

Native only to Colombia, this evergreen perennial orchid grows on trees in the Andes, between about 2,950 and 5,900 feet. Upright, water-storing pseudobulbs each bear one leathery leaf. Fragrant flowers can reach about 8 inches across and range from white and pale pink to lilac and magenta, usually with a darker lip and yellow throat. In Colombia, its main flowering period is December through February. It is the country’s national flower and is classified as Endangered on Colombia’s national red list. Photographed in the department of Quindio, Colombia.