Nature Field Guide
Guaria Morada Orchid
- Spanish name
- Guaria morada
- Scientific name
- Guarianthe skinneri
What Do Pico & Tati Think?
Pico: “Costa Rica’s national flower carries pink-purple blossoms above fleshy leaves.”
Tati: “Let’s notice the leaves, flowers and habitat without disturbing the plant.”
Species overview
About the Guaria Morada Orchid
Guaria morada is an orchid with conspicuous pink-purple flowers, fleshy oblong leaves and thickened stem bases called pseudobulbs. Its flowers include a distinctive lip that differs in shape from the surrounding petals and sepals.
It is Costa Rica’s national flower and an important cultivated plant in local traditions. As an epiphyte, it can use a tree for support without feeding on the tree as a parasite. Admire wild orchids in place and choose documented nursery-grown plants rather than collected forest plants.
Identification
Key Features of the Guaria Morada Orchid
Pink-purple orchid flowers with a shaped lip
Fleshy oblong leaves
Thickened stem bases and roots on a support
Habitat & range
Native Central American orchid, also cultivated in Costa Rican homes and gardens. The Greater Metropolitan Area supports both native flora records and a strong garden tradition.
Local observations
Native to Costa Rica. Local presence and abundance depend on suitable habitat and growing conditions.
When to observe
Leaves and growth form can be observed whenever the plant is accessible. Flowering and fruiting vary with location, weather and the individual plant; ask a local guide about current conditions.
Conservation & care
Do not collect wild orchids, remove roots or climb supporting trees. Observe with an adult from the ground. Any garden plant should come from a documented lawful nursery source.
Threats & pressures
Wild collection and habitat loss are conservation concerns. Leave forest plants in place and support protection of their habitat.
Observation activity
Draw one flower and identify the lip. Explain the difference between using a tree for support and feeding on it.