A special place for orchids

Established in 2018, the Juli Plant Grainger Orchid Collection is one of the newest and most dynamic additions to the Garden's living plant collections. Originating with plants from the inaugural Orchid Show, the collection was created to enable year-round orchid displays, showcase the orchid family's remarkable diversity, and support orchid conservation. As the collection has grown, its goals have expanded, emphasizing research collaborations, curatorial excellence, and the strategic acquisition of rare and endangered taxa.

Curated by Johanna Hutchins, the collection comprises approximately 70 percent species and 30 percent hybrids, reflecting the Garden’s commitment to genetic and ecological diversity alongside horticultural achievement. The collection notably includes the rare ghost orchid (Dendrophylax lindenii), renowned for its elusive beauty and conservation significance. Other highlights include extensive representation of tropical lady slipper orchids, notably Paphiopedilum (72 of 148 accepted species and varieties) and Phragmipedium (13 of 20 accepted species and varieties), and an expanding collection of Bulbophyllum, the largest orchid genus, renowned for diverse floral forms.

The Garden has also launched a collaborative conservation initiative targeting terrestrial orchids of the Great Lakes region. This program seeks to preserve regional biodiversity by establishing a comprehensive collection that represents native orchids, captures genetic diversity, and supports restoration and scientific research. The initiative integrates living plants, seed banking, fungal cultures, and herbarium specimens, with an emphasis on education and public engagement. The Garden aims to include 25 percent of Great Lakes orchid species, developing best practices for propagation, reintroduction, and ongoing care through partnerships with other institutions such as the North American Orchid Conservation Center (NAOCC). This initiative underscores the Garden's dedication to safeguarding orchids and fostering stewardship of native ecosystems.