This is another Zygopetalum orchid from my collection, currently in flower. It's variety "Port Vincent" and it have beautiful two-tone blooms. The petals are rich velvety dark brown color and the lip slightly curly velvety purple color.
These orchids are mainly sub-tropical to warm temperature growers and can take quite a bit of heat, which is perfect for our summer climate. They love growing in the shade with lot's of air movement and the shadiest part of my garden ideal place for them. They like a bit of moisture , but dislike being wet for a long period and require liberal, heavy watering followed by being almost dry before being watered again.
In AU, we have number of innovative Zygo orchid breeders and new beautiful and striking varieties appearing all the time, giving immense pleasure to orchid collectors. Thankfully, many breeding lines have kept the unmistaken Zygo scents. "Port Vincent" variety have main jasmine like scent with undertones of honeysuckle - very enjoyable combination that lingers around the garden for a long time.
If you live in sub-tropical or warmer climate and have shady spot in the garden or a balcony or a covered situation - give Zygo's a go, they are easy to grow, will reward you with striking blooms and scent and will show you a magic of orchids and they way it brings people together from such different backgrounds to share their love of these beautiful plants.
