Did you know that orchids, at a staggering 28,000, have twice as many accepted species than that of birds, and four times that of mammals? This incredibly diverse family of flowering plants spans the globe, found in almost every corner of the world. A large and very unique portion of them, however, can be found in the tropical Americas, making Costa Rica an orchid enthusiast’s paradise!
How common are orchids in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica is home to around 1,500 discovered species of orchids, ranging in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, with new species being constantly discovered. In 2022 alone, researchers found fifteen species never previously recorded, as well as five that had only been previously recorded in other countries. They are so emblematic of Costa Rica, in fact, that the country’s national flower is an orchid, Cattleya skinnier (commonly known at the Guaria Morada). While the largest number of species can be found in the central valley and Pacific slope, there is no part of the country that does not contain them.
How do I see orchids in Costa Rica?
Despite the large number of orchids in Costa Rica, their size and distribution can make them difficult to see. Many grow high in the trees, in dense rainforest, and are so small that they are almost invisible to the naked eye. Orchids also have blooming seasons, with the dry season (January-March) being a particularly good time to spot them. This is not a concrete rule, though, and some can be found blooming during other times of the year, in very visible locations. In order to guarantee the best chance of successfully seeing orchids, it is advisable to go on a nature tour with a guide. They will be well-versed in where to spot them, and will have telescopes for successful viewing.
Are there other ways to view Costa Rica’s orchids?
Yes! For those who would prefer to see a large concentration of orchids in one spot, dedicated gardens, such as the Botanical Orchid Garden in La Garita, and Monteverde Orchid Garden, are also great options.
Do you ever see them around Casa Danta?
Definitely! We’ve seen a variety in the trees surrounding Casa Danta, so be sure to keep an eye out!
Extremely lovely and diverse, orchids are definitely worth including on your “must see” list while in Costa Rica. With a little planning, you’ll be spotting these incredible plants in no time!
Botanical Orchid Garden:
https://www.orchidgardencr.com/home.html
Monteverde Orchid Garden:
https://monteverdeorchidgarden.com/tours-in-monteverde/