Orchid Resembles the Face of a Monkey

Orchid Resembles the Face of a Monkey

Dracula simia is the scientific name of the monkey orchid. They are called that because their flowers are shaped like monkey faces. Photo: Flickriver.

Dracula simia is the scientific name of the monkey orchid. They are called that because their flowers are shaped like monkey faces. Photo: Flickriver.

Their scientific name consists of two parts. “Dracula” means “vampire”, because the flower has spikes like the fangs of a vampire. “Simia” means “monkey” in Latin. Photo: Flickriver.

Their scientific name consists of two parts. “Dracula” means “vampire”, because the flower has spikes like the fangs of a vampire. “Simia” means “monkey” in Latin. Photo: Flickriver .

The habitat of the monkey orchid is mountainous areas, with an altitude of 1,000 to 2,000 m above sea level. Photo: Flickriver.

The habitat of the monkey orchid is mountainous areas, with an altitude of 1,000 to 2,000 m above sea level. Photo: Flickriver .

They like open and airy spaces. Photo: Flickriver.

They like open and airy spaces. Photo: Flickriver .

They have been seen in several South American countries such as Peru, Colombia and Ecuador. Photo: Flickriver.

They have been seen in several South American countries such as Peru, Colombia and Ecuador. Photo: Flickriver .

The flowers of the monkey orchid do not bloom in a certain period. In fact, they can bloom at any time of the year. Photo: Flickriver .

The flowers of the monkey orchid do not bloom in a certain period. In fact, they can bloom at any time of the year. Photo: Flickriver .

Monkey orchid gives off an orange-like smell. Photo: Flickriver .

Monkey orchid gives off an orange-like smell. Photo: Flickriver .

Very few people successfully grow monkey orchids at home, because they are very picky about their habitat. Photo: Flickriver .