These Rare Orchids Look Like Mini Monkey Faces When They Flower

It seems that Mother Nature may have used an adorable monkey as inspiration when creating these rare flowers.

Stephanie

• Published in Interesting
• October 17, 2021

What could possibly be cuter than a flower that looks like a little monkey? Yep, you're right - nothing!

And we have some of these adorable plants right here to brighten your day! Dracula simia, which translates to "little dragon monkey," is a rare orchid found in the tropical southeastern regions of Ecuador and Peru.

Part of the Dracula genus family, the cute orchid can grow up to two feet tall, with flowers that expand to an average of two inches. It can produce flowers in a range of pretty colors such as red, yellow, and purple.

Its petals can also feature patterns like spots and stripes. But its most distinguishing feature by far is its adorable monkey face!

The unique ornamental plant blooms all year round and can be a challenge to grow at home. However, that's not to say it can't be done!

If you're up for the challenge, bear in mind that the Monkey Face Orchid requires very particular living conditions. The rare plant enjoys deep shade, cool temperatures, good air circulation, and high humidity.

The Dracula simia may not be the best plant to start with if you're new to gardening. But, if you're successful, you'll be rewarded with an adorable flower that blooms all season and smells like a sweet, ripe orange.

Sadly, some of the Dracula genus species are considered endangered and even extinct.

The species was first discovered in the late 1970s by botanist Carlyle A. Luer. The Monkey Face Orchid grows in the tropical highland forests of Southeast Ecuador and Peru, with elevations between 1,000-2,000 meters.

There are over 110 varieties within the Dracula genus family.

Each type is a different color and shape, but all with the same adorable monkey face. And the resemblance to the simian primate is striking!

The Monkey Face Orchid is aptly named with two dark eyes, a beard, and a fuzzy nose and eyebrows. It seems that Mother Nature may have used an adorable monkey as inspiration when creating these rare flowers.

It smells like oranges!

That's right; this unique flower is not only adorable, but it also smells like ripe oranges! It's kind of ironic when you think about it; I mean, you'd expect a plant with the face of a monkey to smell like bananas, right?

Some even look furry!

They take seven years to grow.

If you're planning on having a crack at growing one of these beauties for yourself, you will need to have some serious patience. The Monkey Face Orchid takes seven years to flower after germination!

However, your perseverance will be rewarded. Once the orchid starts to flower, it will bloom every year for up to 19 years!

The Dracula part of its name comes from its two long spikes that resemble fangs.

It is said that the Dracula simia represents evil and death, which seems rather daunting. However, it also symbolizes power and authority.

Did I mention that different flowers can provide different expressions? I mean, how much cooler can a flower get?

Although these cute flowers are scarce, and we are unlikely ever to see them in person unless we travel to South America, they are certainly worth the effort if you are given a chance to view them. With their sweet monkey faces, intricate details, and delicious orange scent, you are not likely to forget these unique blooms in a hurry.

Have you been lucky enough to see a Monkey Face Orchid or perhaps even grow one for yourself? Let us know what your favorite thing about them is in the comments below!

Stephanie