Tiger Orchid

Recently, in the Jawaharlal Nehru Tropical Botanic Garden and Research Institute (JNTBGRI) in Kerala, witnessed the full bloom of Tiger orchids.
The bloom of Tiger orchids (Grammatophyllum speciosum) flowers resembles the tiger skin.
It flowers alternate years.
It is endemic to South East Asia (countries like Indonesia, Philippines etc) and is an epiphytic plant.
About Epiphytic Plant
- Epiphytic Plant grows on the surface of another plant and derives its nutrients from rain, air, water or from debris accumulating it.
- Unlike parasitic plants, epiphytic plants use other plants as a base and do not harm its host. E.g. Lichens, Algae, Orchids etc.