Lycaste skinneri var. alba
This orchid, called the Monja Blanca in Spanish, or White Nun, was proclaimed the national flower of Guatemala in 1934 by the dictator Ubico. (Another version of the Latin name is Lycaste virginalis var. alba.)
This rare orchid is found in Alta Verapaz, in the northwest of the country. It is fragrant and showy, but difficult to grow; commercial use is prohibited in Guatemala. It is said to symbolize peace, beauty, and art.
Image from Heckeroth Orchids.
Posted: September 11th, 2007 under natural world.
Comments: 1
Comments
Comment from mishel
Time: March 24, 2008, 9:08 pm
la monga blanca
Write a comment