Finding a Ghost Orchid is like finding a four-leaf clover. These delicate and fascinating plants are hidden in the swamps of South Florida. Since 2007, when someone found an outstanding orchid of this species in the wild in Naples, no one has been able to locate one since. Nowadays, the house of this beautiful and enchanting orchid in the wild still remains a secret. The Ghost Orchid lets itself be seen only in some preserves of Florida, and if you are lucky, in some areas at the Everglades. While we love alligators, Florida airboat rides and wildlife, we also love the delicacy and rare nature of a ghost orchid.
With long delicate petals and a combination of green, grey and white tones, the Ghost Orchid resembles a spider showing off its nectar like a web awaiting for an insect to pollenize it. Tangled in the trunk of different type of trees with its large roots, the Ghost Orchid will majestically grow at a height not easy to reach by any insect. The sphinx moth, will be the only one with enough fortune to visit this plant at night and use its tiny tongue to drink the sweet nectar of the Ghost Orchid.
Ghost Orchids are leafless, which makes even harder the task of finding one. Fortunately, summer is the best time of the year to spot one, especially during June and July, when this orchid blooms. However, it’s approximated that, out of the 2,000 of the species that reside in South Florida just 5% - 10% bloom each year.
Hosted by trees like cypress, pond apple or maple, the Ghost Orchid is an endangered species in the state of Florida. Drastic changes in the weather and human development in South Florida have severely affected this species. If you are lucky enough to find one, leave it there, otherwise, it may automatically die. This species of orchid needs a certain type of fungus, the right shade, mild temperature, and the exact humidity to survive.
Next time you visit our park and take a Florida airboat ride through the Everglades, be alert and ready to find a Ghost Orchid. If we pass by one with all these tips on mind, you won’t be able to miss one, or will you? Visit us and get an in-depth look at the flora and fauna that make up our beautiful wetlands. Book your tickets today by calling (866) 532-7167.
