Tiger Orchids:
Tiger Orchids (Grammatophyllum speciosum) bloom at the Jawaharlal Nehru Tropical Botanic Garden and Research Institute (JNTBGRI), Palode, Kerala.
- Tiger orchid is the largest orchid species in the world.
- It is called Tiger Orchid because of its splendid flowers which sport striking brown spots against a yellow backdrop, bringing to mind tigers.
- After 8-12 years of growth, Grammatophyllum speciosum produces flowers in alternate years in its natural habitat.
- It is often grown as an ornamental orchid in gardens and parks for its attractive foliage and large flowers.
- It flowers in January or July, but plants do not flower every year.
- The plant was listed by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s tallest orchid, with specimens recorded up to 7.62 metres in height
- Distribution: Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Myanmar and Laos.
- They grow in Terrestrial (Primary Rainforest, Freshwater Swamp Forest, Riverine) habitats.
- Preferred Climate Zone: Tropical, Sub-Tropical / Monsoonal.
- Conservation status
- CITES : Appendix II
