Why have an orchid show in summer?
Breaking tradition to showcase seasonal blooms and rare summer treasures
Embracing the Unexpected
When most people think of orchid shows, they picture events held during spring or WInter. The tradition of winter and early spring shows has been the norm for decades, particularly in Australia. So why host the Summer Orchid Fair in December? The answer lies in a deliberate choice to showcase orchids that shine during this vibrant season.
The Southern Hemisphere Connection
For our inaugural event focusing on the magnificent Laelia purpurata, timing is everything. While December marks the beginning of winter in the Northern Hemisphere, it's the heart of summer in Brazil—the native home of Laelia purpurata and similarly so in Australia. By scheduling our show during this time, we're honoring the natural blooming cycle of our featured orchid in its native habitat.
This approach creates a unique opportunity to see these spectacular plants at their absolute peak. In the wild, Laelia purpurata typically flowers from November through January, making our December show the perfect moment to experience these orchids as nature intended.
Seasonal Specialists
Beyond our featured Laelia purpurata, summer presents an opportunity to showcase numerous orchid species that are often overlooked at traditional spring shows:
- Multifloral Slippers: There isn't a multifloral around that doesn't scream both rarity and grace and with their peak in summer we are sure to see some beautiful examples at the show.
- Other Laelinniae species: whether its Laelia tenebrosa many of the bifoliate cattleyas or even a Brassavola or two its not just Laelia purpurata amongst the Cats that can put on a show.
- Stanhopea species: With their extraordinary flowers that often appear suddenly in summer and while short lived are nevertheless the fragrant jewels of summer.
- Phalaenopsis and Vanda species: Heat-loving species that thrive and bloom during warmer months including many devine miniature species.
- Various Dendrobium species: Particularly those from warmer regions that flower in summer as part of the monsoonal cycle.
These summer bloomers often miss their moment in the spotlight at traditional shows, yet they include some of the most fascinating and beautiful orchids in cultivation.
Creating New Traditions
Innovation often means challenging conventions. By hosting our orchid show during summer, we're creating a new tradition that celebrates diversity in the orchid world and provides enthusiasts with year-round opportunities to engage with these remarkable plants.
The Summer Orchid Festival establishes a complementary event to existing shows, expanding the calendar for both vendors and collectors. This timing allows growers to showcase different parts of their collections and gives collectors access to plants that might not be available or in bloom at other times of the year.
Practical Advantages
Beyond the botanical considerations, a summer show offers several practical benefits:
- Holiday-friendly timing: Many people have more flexible schedules during summer
- Fewer competing events: Less competition with other major orchid shows typically clustered in spring
- Holiday gift opportunities: Perfect timing for finding unique gifts for plant-loving friends and family
Join Us This December
We invite you to experience orchids from a new perspective at the Summer Orchid Festival this December. Whether you're a seasoned collector or simply curious about these extraordinary plants, our summer celebration of Laelia purpurata and other seasonal bloomers promises to be a refreshing addition to the orchid world's calendar.
Break from tradition and discover why summer might just be the perfect season for orchid appreciation.
The inaugural Summer Orchid Fair takes place December 14-15, 2025. Subscribe for updates below.
