Sobralia orchid

Description:

3m (10') tall, terrestrial, not sure of the species

Habitat:

open mountains, 2000m

Notes:

I spotted this while doing an epic 14km loop through the mountains to visit underground burial tombs in National Archaeological Park of Tierradentro. I came just to see the tombs and they were cool but I was extra happy when I picked up some unique spottings along the way. This orchid was growing in large clumps on steep hillsides near the end of the trail. There was a lot of plants but almost all had already gone to seed. I kept my eyes peeled for a flower and thankfully near the end of the trail, before I started to descend back to the village, I spotted one. Problem was it was slightly obscured and kind of far away for any good shots. I figured millions upon millions of seeds had already been dispersed in the area so I could cut at least one stalk for photographic documentation. The plant was about 3m (10') down an extremely steep slope surround by tall and sharp grasses. It was not easy to reach and I had to hold onto anything around in order not to slide down. Once I reached the plant, I broke the stalk. I had to put it in my mouth to climb back up because I needed both my hands to pull myself up. I was cut up and dirty but in the end it was worth it to see such cool and huge orchid flowers and be able to share them with everyone.