Mother Nature’s Masterpieces

The Fort Worth Botanic Garden invites visitors to “World of Orchids,” a dazzling indoor exhibit that runs Feb. 24 – April 9.

“Orchid exhibits, frequently hosted by world-class botanic gardens, are the perfect opportunity to introduce our community to the beauty and splendor of one of the world’s most diverse plant families,” said Bob Byers, FWBG executive vice president. “Most orchids bloom in late winter and early spring, so that is the ideal time to showcase this amazing flower.”

White egret orchid (Habenaria radiata)

Fort Worth Orchid Society President Dotty Woodson described “World of Orchids” as a first-time orchid event of this magnitude in Texas. “It will turn the Fort Worth Botanic Garden’s rainforest conservatory into an exquisite orchid paradise with thousands of colorful orchids of every shape and size arranged in spectacular displays,” Woodson said.

Diamond Orchid (Ophrys reinholdii)

With approximately 30,000 species, orchids are the largest family of flowering plants in the world and grow on every continent except Antarctica.  Some orchids are terrestrial (ground-dwelling) and grow in temperate and boreal regions.  Many orchid species are epiphytic, which means they grow on other plants but derive moisture and nutrients from the air, rain, water or from debris accumulating around them.

Cockleshell orchid (Prosthechea cochleata)

H-E-B/Central Market is the exhibit’s presenting sponsor. “We’re thrilled to partner with the Fort Worth Botanic Garden on its inaugural ‘World of Orchids’ exhibit. This world-class exhibit will put the Garden on the map for orchid enthusiasts and garden lovers all across the region and beyond,” said Mabrie Jackson, senior director of public affairs, H-E-B/Central Market. “We’re excited to have these beautiful and exotic varieties available for enjoyment down the street from our store right here in Fort Worth.”

Flying duck orchid (Caleana major)

During the course of the exhibit, the event is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with last tickets sold at 4:30 p.m. Visitors may pay to see the orchid exhibit alone or pay to see a combination of the orchid exhibit and the entire Garden. Members pay a discounted price for the orchid exhibit.  For more information, visit fwbg.org/orchids.