Aphrodite Moon Orchids

Aphrodite Moon Orchids, originally uploaded by maxful.

Progeny of Phalaenopsis amabilis are commonly called the Moth Orchids but I use the lesser known title Moon Orchid. (Indonesian: anggrek bulan meaning "moon orchid"). It is one of the three national flowers in Indonesia and enjoys shade not direct sunlight. A variation called ‘Aphrodite’ grows in North Queensland but these in the illustration are crosses grown commercially. Seemed appropriate to arrange them in an outdoor setting. The little birds added to the mix are Chestnut-breasted Mannikin (Lonchura castaneothorax). Some seasons flocks of as many as 500 fly to the giant Jacaranda that flowers around October (Spring). The Moon Orchids stand in pots around the base of the old tree.