Selections from Orchids: Masters of Deception

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, the United States Botanic Garden has opened up their newest show in conjunction with the Smithsonian Gardens. The show is called “Orchids: Masters of Deception” and it’s the 29th installment of this showcase, which highlights parts of the incredible orchid collections of both the USBG and the Smithsonian Gardens. (All photos by me, Maria Helena Carey)

Orchids may look delicate and impossibly beautiful, with shapes that defy gravity. However, they are tough organisms that have developed adaptations that allow them to thrive in difficult environments–– without enough light, without soil, without support––thanks to their ability to manipulate those around them. From looking like an OILF to random insects (yeah, you get it), to exuding aromas in varying degrees of grossness to appeal to the heart of all manner of flies, to being treacly sweet to make sure that ants and other sugar-hunting insects help them live to another generation, orchids are, indeed, masters of deception, mimicry, seduction and more. The best part? This flintiness has resulted in one of the most diverse and complex family that helps us learn about species we didn’t even know existed. That’s the power of diversity.

The show takes place mostly at within the confines of the Great Hall: here, you can find elaborate pieces that look like Cherry blossoms made with everyone’s favorite supermarket regulars, Phalaenopsis orchids. Delicate sprays of Oncidium surprise you out of nowhere. Craving more orchids? make your way to the right and follow through the Mediterranean garden through to the orchid room and inhale–– it’s like a living perfume bottle in the heart of the city.

It’s hard to display plants in general, as anyone who’s ever attempted to arrange a vase full of flowers can attest, but curator Amy Highland and horticulturist Chibueze Ariguzo along with their talented crew have gone above and beyond to make a display that encourages you to stop and be grateful for beauty–– something that is extremely necessary these days.

If you go:

What: The 29th annual USBG and Smithsonian Gardens orchid show, “Orchids: Masters of Deception”
Where: United States Botanic Garden, 100 Maryland Avenue SW. If you’re walking, be advised that the United States Capitol has closed off access on weekdays to through traffic and you are better off walking on the outer perimeter or just on Independence Avenue directly.
When: Opening today, February 14, through April 27, 2025.
Why: Because we need to admire beauty and flintiness. If they can overcome, so can we.