Dracula chestertonii

[Thomas]

This species is found in the Western Cordillera of Colombia where it grows in deeply shaded moist forest ravines at elevations of 1800-2200m. High humidity and good quality water is essential. Intermediate to cool conditions. Flower size 4-5cm.

"Not only does it emit the smell of a fungus (its odor contains many of the same volatile compounds as mushrooms), but the floral lip of the orchid Dracula chestertonii closely resembles the gilled structure of some mushrooms. When female fungus flies are deceived into depositing their eggs on the flower, they also pollinate the orchid." Kaiser, R. 2006. Flowers and Fungi Use Scents to Mimic Each Other. Science. 311(5762): 806-807.

[78Terp]

Beautifully grown drac!

[ravenmike12100]

Strange looking flower but nice and great shots too-well done Thomas.

[catasetum-ian]

very nice healthy plant and superb pic of the flower. love it!

[chingjervis]

Wicked!!! I bet catasetum would want one in his exotic collection.

[ksriramkumar]

Looks awesome. seeing this species for the first time

[Brutal_Dreamer]

Stunning bloom and healthy orchid plant. Nice to hear from you Thomas!

cheers,
BD

[mazlani]

So very unique. Superb pics as always.
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[catttan]

Great shots of a lovely orchid!