papilionanthe hookeriana {hooker’s papilionanthe}

Papilionanthe hookeriana {hooker's papilionanthe}

A terrestrial (grows from the ground) orchid that likes warm to hot conditions with plenty of sunlight. It is found in Veitnam, Thailand, Peninsular Malaysia, Borneo and Sumatra, in lowland forests up to an elevation of 700 metres (2,296 feet).

The inflorescence is about 30 cm (12 inches) long and bears 2 to 12 flowers of 5 cm (2 inches) across. The flowers open successively and are long lasting. Photographed at Kipandi Butterfly Park.