What is a ghost orchid?

The ghost orchid, also known by its scientific name of Dendrophylax lindenii, is a plant species that is a member of the Orchid family. The plant grows only on host trees in certain humid climates, such as those in Florida and some Caribbean islands.

The ghost orchid is an endangered species, and it is against the law in Florida to remove a specimen from the wild. Threats to the plant include a loss of habitat due to logging and people collecting them in the wild in large numbers. Ghost orchids pollinate with the help of the giant sphinx moth and typically bloom in July and August.