These Rare Orchids Look Like Mini Monkey Faces When They Flower
It seems that Mother Nature may have used an adorable monkey as inspiration when creating these rare flowers.
Some flowers are pretty, and then there are the ones that make you do a double take. Dracula simia, better known as the Monkey Face Orchid, is one of those rare blooms, with petals that look uncannily like tiny monkey faces.
Native to the tropical regions of southeastern Ecuador and Peru, this unusual orchid belongs to the Dracula genus and can grow in a range of striking colors, including red, yellow, and purple. Its blooms are small, fragrant, and full of personality, which is probably why so many plant lovers are fascinated by it.
It is also famously tricky to grow, so seeing one in bloom is a treat. Read on for a closer look at this strange little orchid and the details that make it so memorable.
Sadly, some of the Dracula genus species are considered endangered and even extinct.
The species was first discovered in the late 1970s by botanist Carlyle A. Luer. The Monkey Face Orchid grows in the tropical highland forests of Southeast Ecuador and Peru, at elevations between 1,000 and 2,000 meters.
Columbus GV TeamThere are over 110 varieties within the Dracula genus family.
Each type has a different color and shape, but all share the same adorable monkey face. The resemblance to the simian primate is striking!
The Monkey Face Orchid is aptly named, featuring two dark eyes, a beard, and a fuzzy nose and eyebrows. It seems that Mother Nature may have used an adorable monkey as inspiration when creating these rare flowers.
Columbus GV TeamIt smells like oranges!
That's right; this unique flower is not only adorable, but it also smells like ripe oranges! It's kind of ironic when you think about it; I mean, you'd expect a plant with the face of a monkey to smell like bananas, right?
Steve Beckendorf
It’s like the neighbor who’s furious after an exotic pet goes missing, and debates whether to refuse pet sitting again: the “WIBTA” pet-sitting blowup.
Some even look furry!
Wikia
They take seven years to grow.
If you're planning to try growing one of these beauties for yourself, you will need to have some serious patience. The Monkey Face Orchid takes seven years to flower after germination!
However, your perseverance will be rewarded. Once the orchid starts to flower, it will bloom every year for up to 19 years!
Columbus GV Team
The Dracula part of its name comes from its two long spikes that resemble fangs.
Quimbaya
It is said that the Dracula simia represents evil and death, which seems rather daunting. However, it also symbolizes power and authority.
JaromirAzarov
Did I mention that different flowers can provide different expressions? I mean, how much cooler can a flower get?
Although these cute flowers are scarce, and we are unlikely ever to see them in person unless we travel to South America, they are certainly worth the effort if you have the chance to view them. With their sweet monkey faces, intricate details, and delicious orange scent, you are unlikely to forget these unique blooms in a hurry.
Have you been lucky enough to see a Monkey Face Orchid or perhaps even grow one for yourself? Let us know what your favorite thing about them is in the comments below!
It is one of those plants that looks almost too strange to be real.
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