Guaria Morada
(Guarianthe skinneri (Orchidaceae))
(Guarianthe skinneri (Orchidaceae))
Distribution:
Chiapas (southern state of Mexico), Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, to Costa Rica at elevations of 200 to 230m Characteristics: Guaria Moradas are exquisite orchids, and have fragrant, purple flowers. The flowers bloom from January to April. Habitat: Found on tree branches of humid forests The plant is a type of epiphyte, and may be hard to spot in the wild Other: - It is the national flower of Costa Rica (designated on June 15, 1939) - Many families in Costa Rica like to grow this plant in their yard. The plant is sometimes associated with the beauty of the Costa Rican people, also representing the abundance, fragility, and elegance of nature. - The Guaria Morada brings fortune, good luck, peace, love, and hope for the future according to local Costa Rican tradition. It is said that the flower has only a mild fragrance because it is filled with dreams which are to be fulfilled. |