By Chi Bing-hui, compiled and reported
Orchids are a shining light of Taiwan’s agriculture, with last year’s output value reaching as high as $116 million, demonstrating Taiwan’s top-tier global expertise in cultivation and research. From October 7 to October 16, the Taipei City Government Department of Public Works’ Parks Division will exhibit about 50 species of miscellaneous orchids at the New Orchid Pavilion in the Shilin Official Residence Park. Visitors are welcome to come and admire the flowers.
The lush greenery of the Shilin Official Residence is popular with visitors.
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 with astonishingly abundant blooms. P. violacea is the red variant of the fluorescent butterfly orchid, mostly with vibrant red petals and a richly enchanting fragrance. P. tetraspis c1 is a wild species of butterfly orchid with particularly distinctive flower colors, where the red hues on the petals and sepals vary greatly. Paph. Spicerianum X Self is a very cute wild species of slipper orchid, with flowers that resemble a frog, mainly blooming in autumn and winter.
The Rose Garden, beloved by Soong Mei-ling.
As 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 take on the scenery of late autumn, with beautiful mountain landscapes. Visitors can come with family and friends, and with a leisurely heart, enjoy the golden leaves and the continuous waves of autumn colors.