Peru is one of the richest countries in both flora and fauna, from ornamental plants as well as exotic animals such as the cock of the rocks. Among all this variety are Peruvian orchids. They are the most popular specimens around the world. Interestingly, a copy of Cattleya was the first orchid taken to Europe in an unusual way, since it was packed inside a shipment of moss sent in 1818 from Brazil to the United Kingdom.
The Peruvian jungle is a paradise of unknown species of orchids. Each year, around 20 and 30 new specimens of this beautiful species are discovered. In addition, the main tourist destination of Peru (Machu Picchu) houses many of these plants. They adorn the surroundings of the citadel as well as the sides of the Inca Trail. According to many researchers, the strip that accompanies the Inca Trail is the one that has the most orchids in the world.
Peru is home to around 2,600 to 3,000 species of orchids, one of the highest figures in the world. For this reason, Peruvians have given orchids an aesthetic value, not only because they have won the hearts of the entrepreneurs who grow them but also because of the great export level they have.
Peruvian orchids grow in places that have temperate climates between 800 to 2500 meters above sea level, for example in San Martin, Amazonas, Cusco, Piura, etc. Some species run the risk of being over harvested because of their beauty and size. Many people are reported to have extracted the plants illegally from the country. Many orchids are now in danger of extinction. Many Peruvian orchids have been included in the appendices of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), to adequately protect them.
The city known as the city of orchids is Moyobamba (San Martín). It is home to more than two thousand varieties of orchids. Its variety of altitudes and warm climates have made it a beautiful place for the development of orchids, especially the cattleya species. In addition, this city annually organizes a festival dedicated to orchids, where different species, both hybrid and natural, are exhibited. This year the municipality of Moyobamba will organize the XXIII Orchid Festival and the International Exhibition from October 27 to 30.
Orchids do not only belong to Peru, but also to many other countries. You can find them in nurseries of your city or in agricultural fairs, they are very nice to decorate the room, the office, etc. That’s why we invite you to have one at home.
