Spathoglottis plicata (Philippine Ground Orchid)

Native to tropical and subtropical Asia, northeastern Australia and Pacific islands, this perennial ground orchid forms clumps of pseudobulbs and long, pleated leaves. Pink to purple flowers open a few at a time along tall stalks that can reach about 6 feet. It grows in open grassy or disturbed habitats. New plants can be raised from seed or by dividing the pseudobulbs. Crosses with related species have produced additional flower colors; one example is Spathoglottis Primrose, a hybrid with S. aurea. It has escaped cultivation and naturalized in the Caribbean, Florida and Hawaii. In Hawaii, it can invade sensitive habitats. Some naturalized plants self-pollinate without their flowers opening. Photographed in Colombia and Florida.