Genus Grammatophyllum

An article from the Honolulu Advertiser posted on Friday describes the Grammatophyllum genus of orchids that can be grown outdoors in Hawaii. One species in particular, Grammatophyllum speciosum, has pseudobulbs that can grow upwards of 15 feet with 8-foot long flower stalks! Also known as the tiger orchid, this is the world's largest orchid.

"The largest single plant on record was exhibited in 1851 in the Crystal Palace in London. This monster weighed more than two tons!"

This weekend in Hawaii, the Aiea Orchid Society annual show and plant sale (Aiea, HI) is happening. According to the article there are always Grammatophyllum specimens on display at this show.

The Brooklyn Botanic Gardens has a Grammatophyllum speciosum specimen, which was donated in 1998 and bloomed for the first time in 2003. You can see pictures here.