Watershed 3 minute read
Singular orchid of our forests
The flower of the Holy Spirit (Peristeria Elata) has a special meaning for Panamanians because it has the title of National Flower, declared as such by Law 46 of November 21, 1980.
Curiously, the anatomy of this native orchid reproduces the image of a white dove, which is interpreted in the religious context as a representation of the Holy Spirit of the Christian faith.
Tropical orchids are one of the most appreciated flowers worldwide for their beauty, exoticness and ornamental value. At the same time, the cultivated varieties are high-ranking flowers in the commercial context.
The forests of our country have a great biodiversity of orchids with an estimated 1,200 species, very varied in their shapes, sizes and colors, which are spread throughout the national geography.
The flower of the Holy Spirit grows in terrestrial substrates. The plant has robust pseudobulbs with leaves up to one meter long, elongated, light green and pleated texture. Once a year, a long vertical spike with small flower buds at the end emerges from its base. As they grow, they become large and white.
As they mature, the flower buds of the flower cluster open and reveal a stunning beauty: the figure of a dove covered by white petals. It is an unconventional flower because of its porcelain-like petals and strong, exquisite fragrance. Flowering occurs in the rainy season: it begins in June and the flowers reach their peak in September and October. After being pollinated by wild bees of the Euglossini tribe, they develop their seed-filled capsules.
Long ago, it was an abundant species, but nowadays it is not. Today there are small populations in the provinces of Cocle, Colon, Panama, Veraguas and Herrera. In the latter, the National Festival of the Flower of the Holy Spirit is celebrated annually, instituted by law 117 of December 10, 2019.
This rare orchid caught our attention as a country and occupies a place of honor in our botanical heritage.
It is important to note that it is present in the inventory of the canal flora.
In spite of its uncertain future, here, in these forests overflowing with biodiversity, it finds an oasis for its survival, one fallen from the sky.
- Scientific name: Peristeria elata
- The elimination of its habitat and its indiscriminate extraction from the forests by collectors put its reproduction and survival at risk.
- This orchid is threatened in the vulnerable category and is one of the most trafficked protected flora species in Panama.
FAQs
Curiously, the anatomy of this native orchid reproduces the image of a white dove, which is interpreted in the religious context as a representation of the Holy Spirit of the Christian faith. Tropical orchids are one of the most appreciated flowers worldwide for their beauty, exoticness and ornamental value.
What does the orchid symbolize in the Bible? ›
In Christian theology, the spots on orchid flowers were seen as a symbol of the blood of Christ and thus orchids frequently were found in Easter and Christmas flower arrangements. Meanwhile, the Aztecs viewed them as a symbol of strength and drank a concoction formulated from vanilla orchids as a strength potion.
What does the ghost orchid symbolize? ›
The Ghost Orchid has inspired various artistic and cultural expressions. It has been seen as a symbol of mystery, transcendence, and the delicate beauty of the natural world.
What does the Dove Orchid symbolize? ›
Throughout history, the Dove Orchid has held profound symbolic significance in the cultures of Central and South America. Revered by indigenous peoples as a symbol of purity, spirituality, and divine presence, it has been associated with rituals, ceremonies, and legends passed down through generations.
What does the flower symbolize spiritually? ›
This appreciation for flowers extended beyond their physical beauty; the people understood that flowers held deeper spiritual and moral significance. In the Bible, flowers often symbolize various virtues, such as love, faith, and hope, as well as significant events in the lives of biblical figures.
What is the main symbol of the Holy Spirit? ›
One of the most common symbols of the Holy Spirit is a dove. It comes from the story of Jesus' baptism, when Jesus saw “the Spirit, like a dove, descending upon him.” (Mark 1:10) The other three Gospel writers use similar wording to describe the event (see Matthew 3:16, Luke 3:22, and John 1:32).
What flower represents Jesus in the Bible? ›
The Passion Flower with its various parts is seen as a symbols of Jesus' scourging, crowning with thorns and crucifixion.
What is the spiritual meaning of the orchid flower? ›
Across different cultures and belief systems, orchids are associated with enlightenment, purity, and spiritual growth. Their presence can evoke a sense of tranquility, connecting us to the divine and inspiring us to seek inner peace and harmony.
What are 5 flowers mentioned in the Bible? ›
- Madonna Lily - lilium candidum. Song of Songs 2:1-2. ...
- Mint - mentha sativum. Matthew 23:23, Luke 11:42. ...
- Mustard - brassica juncea. Matthew 13:31-33, 17:20. ...
- Myrtle - myrtus communis. Nehemiah 8:15 Zechariah 1:8,10,11.
Orchids have a meaning and symbolism behind them. Their appearance makes them one of the most desirable plants for a gift. The most highly coveted of ornamental plants the delicate, exotic and graceful orchid represents love, luxury, beauty and strength. In ancient Greece, orchids were associated with virility.
Pink orchids are most often seen as symbols of femininity, grace and elegance. They can also be used to show admiration, appreciation, or gratitude. As with most red blooms, red orchids are associated with desire, passion and love. They can be given as a way to say "I love you" or to express deep affection.
What does the orchid mean at a funeral? ›
Orchids have come to symbolize eternal love, and are an important part of sharing sympathies after the death of a loved one. Florists typically recommend orchids for those who are hoping to send a floral arrangement as a means of offering condolences.
What flower represents the Holy Spirit? ›
Plants in Christian iconography
| Flower | Symbol | Reason |
|---|
| White tulip | Holy Spirit | White tulips are used to send a message of forgiveness |
16 more rowsThe symmetry of the flowers to its stems and leaves has led to the orchid being a symbol of beautiful perfection. In Christian theology, the spots on orchids are believed to represent the blood of Christ, so they are often found in Easter and even Christmas arrangements.
What is the rare orchid flower of the Holy Spirit? ›
Peristeria elata is a species of orchid occurring from Central America to Panama, Venezuela, and Ecuador. It is the type species of its genus. It is commonly referred to as the Holy Ghost orchid, dove orchid, or flower of the Holy Spirit in English, and, as the flor del Espiritu Santo in Spanish.
What is the holy flower symbol? ›
Plants in Christian iconography
| Flower | Symbol |
|---|
| Iris | Our Lady of Sorrows |
| Lily | Purity, theological virtues of justice, charity and hope; also the Holy Trinity. The White Lily is specific to virginal saints, whether female or male |
| Lily of the valley | Chastity, humility and humbleness of Mary |
| Palm branch | Martyrdom |
13 more rowsAccording to John Chancellor, in his book The Flowers and Fruits of the Bible (NY: Beaufort Books, Inc., 1982, p. 42), the lily (actually "lilies of the field") Jesus spoke of in Matthew 6:28-29 was the poppy anemone (Anemone coronaria).
What is the flower that represents Jesus? ›
The Passion Flower. – John S. Stokes Jr. The Passion Flower with its various parts is seen as a symbols of Jesus' scourging, crowning with thorns and crucifixion.
What is the flower of God symbol? ›
Carnations are also known as the "Flower of God". The Greek name for Carnation is a fusion of "dios" and "anthos". Dios is used the described Zeus while Anthos means flower; thus the name "flower of God" is attached to it.
