The Wild Banana Orchid is the national flower of Grand Cayman.
Wild Banana Orchids are particularly abundant in humid conditions, such as in woodlands downwind of ponds and wetlands. As the plant grows, its distinctive shape can be seen developing. Clusters of long, finger-like pseudobulbs group together at the base of the plant, resembling bunches of bananas. Long graceful flower spikes appear around April and May each year, though occasionally flowers can also be seen at other times of the year. The orchid does need the drier period of winter to rest between flowering seasons however, if the level of flowering is to be maintained. During this time the bulbs dry out and become compressed. Come the rainy season, the pseudobulbs plump up and the flowering begins again.
The Wild Banana Orchid is an endemic species of orchid - that is, it is found only in the
The Wild Banana Orchid is not endangered, but accelerating deforestation for development has destined the loss of many host trees and their orchids. Efforts are being made to make people aware of this loss of habitat - not just for the Wild Banana Orchid, but for many species of Cayman's wildlife. Property developers are encouraged to look at established native trees on a site, and retain as many as possible for merging into their landscaping schemes.
The Wild Banana Orchid is in its native habitat in The Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park and along The Mastic Trail.
