The "Miscellaneous Genera Orchid Exhibition" at the Shilin Official Residence kicks off on October 7th, showcasing a fragrant display

By Chi Binghui, compiled and reported

Orchids are the pride of Taiwan’s agriculture, with last year’s output value reaching as high as US$116 million, demonstrating Taiwan’s world-leading techniques in cultivation and research. From October 7th to October 16th, the Taipei City Government’s Public Works Bureau, Parks Division will exhibit around 50 species of miscellaneous genera orchids at the New Orchid Pavilion in the Shilin Official Residence Park. The public is welcome to visit the residence to enjoy the blooms.

Among the exhibits, the Habenaria, a type of terrestrial orchid, mainly consists of Habenaria rhodocheila native to China and Indochina, as well as its hybrids. It features uniquely shaped flowers with bright colors, and some varieties can grow up to 100 cm, producing an astonishingly large number of blooms. P. violacea is the red variety of the fluorescent butterfly orchid, with petals mostly in striking red hues and an enchantingly rich fragrance. P. tetraspis c1 is a wild species of butterfly orchid, boasting distinctive flower colors with varying shades of red on its petals and sepals. Paph. Spicerianum X Self is a very cute wild species of slipper orchid, with flowers resembling a frog, and its blooming season mainly falls in autumn and winter.

The season has transitioned into cool autumn. The mild weather is perfect for leisurely strolls and flower viewing. At this time, the Shilin Official Residence grounds present the scenery of late autumn, with beautiful mountain landscapes. Visitors can come with family and friends, and enjoy the golden leaves and continuous autumn hues with a relaxed heart.