Belizean Orchids

We went to Belize,in early Dec to a place called Bacab Jungle Park and while there we found two little beauties. The first is their National flower, simply called the "Black Orchid"
These orchid flowers are borne on stalks called pedicels, as are other flowers. During the growth and development of the flower, however, the pedicel rotates 180°, so that the mature orchid flower is borne upside down.





And this one is called "The Lady of the Night" I apologize for the poor quality of the foto.



This trip was supposed to feature multiple orchids growing in the jungle, however the area was just 3 weeks past recovering from massive flooding and most of the low lying areas were still unnavigable through thick flooded jungle. So we stuck to the elevated paths and did the best we could in the intermittent rain.
Then on to Mexico and sunshine!
Last but not least of my meager sightings was this spectacular Catt growing in a tree in Kohunlich Mexico. As you can see it was not in bloom, but was impressive by it's size. Thanks for looking.

massive catt! Must be spectacular in bloom!