ORCHIDS IN PHILIPPINE LANDSCAPE 2009

Orchids in Philippine Landscape 

(*NOTE to add more pictures once we retrieve them)

In the city’s high-rise condominiums, posh residential villages or in the remote

barangays all over the country, orchids can add lovely colors , amazing beauty that dazzle one’s creative imagination and various artistic landscaping styles in every garden. 

The tropical climate in the Philippines in which many of the native orchids species as well as thousands of hybrids that are accustomed with, provide an opportunity for professional landscapers or just simple hobbyists with a few orchids and ornamental plants to use orchids as a landscape subjects or as a focal point in the garden. Some gardeners or hobbyists tend to cultivate orchids for good luck charm or prosperity .

People grow epiphytic orchids in fruit trees or trees in their own garden. In selecting a suitable host tree, a good host tree should have rough bark, not too dense canopy. The orchid roots will attach to the host, so the trees with smooth bark, or barks that can easily peels off the trees regularly will not be a good host . Trees with heavy canopy that tends to block the sunlight is not that suitable in growing orchids, If the lawn grass will not grow under the peculiar tree, the lighting conditions in the area might not

be right to grow orchids. 

There are a lot of ideal host trees, which makes an ideal host for epiphytes like orchids, hoyas, dischidias,ferns among others. One of the ideal host trees which is fondly called Kakawate tree ( Gliricidia sepium ) This shade tree was introduced  in the late 16th century from Mexico , where it is grown as a favorite shade tree in cocoa plantations hence the name “ Madre de cacao” in local vernacular in Tagalog .

Dendrobium hybrid

This tree is planted as a border plant in various places throughout the country, this plant is also used in livestock feeding . Mature trees are usually cut off and then made into driftwood with either steel or cement support at its base. Another is the coconut tree (Cocos nucifera) which is extensively grown all over the country as crop or landscaped focal point of the garden .

Bunga China ( Veitchia merrillii ) the solitary and slender palm may grow up to 6 meter tall and found commonly cultivated throughout the country , Choose the palms with clear trunk below the foliage and rough texture on the trunk it is where you can tie or secure an orchid to grow. 

Other common fruit trees, which are also ideal host trees are Jackfruit ( Artocarpus heterophyllus ), Santol ( Sandoricum koetjape ) However make sure that before the onset of the rainy season try to prune the trees so that it is not too shady for orchids .


Mango (Mangifera indica) this tree is ideal to grow Aerides quinquevulnera , Dendrobium anosmum , However do not attempt in putting any Phalaenopsis orchids in the tree since this tree harbor some insects like June beetle grubs (salagubang beetles ) which may attack the leaves of the Palaenopsis . 

Caimito tree (Chrysophyllum cainito), other common trees that are also suitable for planting orchids . Our very own narra or angsana tree ( Prerocarpus indicus ). In large estate or garden clubs, Huge acacia or rain tree ( Samanea saman ) serves as an ideal host tree. 

 There are several reasons“ why” this tree is an ideal host for epiphytes.
The wide spreading branches provide convenient places for the orchids and ferns to thrive,
while its scaly bark helps to trap dust and nutrients, the bark of this tree can also retain moisture . The folding of its leaves during the evening , or before a thunderstorms allows for dew and rains toreach the inner areas of the crown where these epiphytes can be found.

This tree was introduced from South America in the 1840’s and is planted in many parts

of the country including the official residence of the first family in Malacañang Palace .

Epiphytes can be seen in the several centuries –old rain trees that are found within

the presidential compound . These plants adds mystery and charm to the landscape

gardens of the palace. These are just a few examples. 

 You can examine at the trees and palms which are growing in your garden .Once you have selected your ideal host tree, check the actual position of the tree and the amount of light falling on the trunk or branches on several times of the day . On the exposed palm trunk or tree branch

receiving full sun much of the day , the best orchids to establish are Vanda teres, semi-teres Vandas. Another favorite flowering shrub which was also introduced from Central America which is also an ideal host tree is Kalachuchi or Frangipani , This tree is not only known for its flowers but also an ideal host for orchids like Cattleyas .

If you are planning to plant several orchids in the garden, always remember that orchid species and hybrids had different blooming seasons and patterns. You can also add other epiphytic plants like ferns, hoyas, dischidias to accompany the orchids . This can make your garden a more tropical appeal. If you had already chosen a tree , choose a location that is above adult eye level or in a spot where you can easily spot and enjoy the flowers . Attached the orchid to the trunk with plastic coated wire or plastic garden straw , making it sure that the orchid is properly secure and does not wobble in order to hold the plant temporarily while its roots are taking hold of the host tree . 

Once the orchid is established (This can take from six months to more than one year) then that is the time you can remove the wires. Be sure not to choke the tree trunk or branches as the tree will need some space to grow.

You can try to mist the orchids regularly, and you can fertilize the orchids once you can

see the roots grasp the host tree . Once fully established you can add slow release

fertilizers , and the orchid might need regular watering during the dry season . It is also

wise to grow these orchids into a large specimen type, since it can be dramatic when

these plants comes into blooms .

Terrestrial orchids can also be successfully cultivated in many gardens all over the country . Arundina bambusaefolia which is a plant with a cylindrical stem three to five feet in height , which resemble a small bamboos and has a number of narrow grass like leaves,short and few flowered . Plants of this species should be grown in a compost of rich humus loam with adequate drainage . Its Cattleya- like flowers blooms almost the entire year however the flower lasts only for two or three days. Other popular terrestrial orchids are Spathoglottis plicata which is grown either in pots or in beds all over the country . 

 Growing these wonderful orchids can add beauty and grace to one’s garden be it a small windowsill , an apartment or an extensive haciendas in the province .

(Oct 23,2009)

RECIPE FOR A DELIGHTFUL ORCHID FLOWER SALAD 2009

Orchid Flower Salad

Ms. Nancy Lumen (culinary expert )- She Ka co-host

Orchid Flower Salad By: Mr. Lawrence Chan

Ingredients:

¼ kilo fresh lettuce

2 pcs. medium size carrots grated

chopped celery

3 pcs. medium size shallot onion (sibuyas tagalog ) finely chopped

¼ kilo bacon bits / 1 piece chicken breast

24 pcs. medium size Dendrobium hybrids (Organically grown, not chemically sprayed and pollinia must be removed). ( The orchid flower may be blanch for several seconds- optional )

Definition: This term means to plunge vegetable into boiling water for a few seconds or a few minutes, then remove and place in ice water. This process sets the color of vegetables, lets you easily peel fruits, and slip the skins off nuts. The food does not cook all the way through, so crisp texture is preserved.

12 pcs. small tomato chopped

½ cup squeeze lemon juice

2 cups mayonnaise

2-4 tablespoon sugar

Pinch of iodized salt and pepper to taste

Parmesan cheese for toppings (optional)

author with Ms. Nancy Lumen during the 

February 14, 2008 episode ” She Ka” NBN channel 4

Preparations:

1.) Mix 2-4 tablespoon of sugar, 1/2 cup lemon juice, 2 cups of mayonnaise in a bowl and mix well ( This would be your salad dressing)

2.) In a separate bowl add fresh lettuce , chopped celery , chopped tomato , chopped shallot onion, grated carrots , bacon bits, orchid flower and add the salad dressings

3.) Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste and toss the salad

4.) Sprinkle parmesan cheese as the final topping and add garnish for final presentation.

5.) Serve and enjoy the orchid flower salad!

” Ang Barangay ” community newspaper of

Lakandula High School, Tondo -Manila taken last July 5, 2009

with Ms. Alexandra Balingit editor- in-chief and staff .

Note* This recipe is common in some countries like Thailand , Southern China and Hawaii were Dendrobium orchid plantations are very common sight .

In the Philippines, few exclusive organic and exotic restaurant may offer this dish.

(oct26,2009)

PINEAPPLE FASHION 2009

Pineapple (Ananas comosus) is the common name for an edible tropical plant and also its fruit. It is native to Paraguay and the southern part of Brazil . Pineapple is eaten fresh or canned and is available as a juice or in juice combinations. It is used in dessert, salads, as a complement to meat dishes and in fruit cocktail. While sweet, it is known for its high acid content (perhaps malic and/or citric). Pineapples are the only bromeliad fruit in widespread cultivation. It is one of the most commercially important plants that carry out CMA photosynthesis.

When European explorers discovered this tropical fruit, they called them pineapples (term first recorded in that sense in 1664) because of their resemblance to what is now known as the pine cone. The term pine cone was first recorded in 1694 and was used to replace the original meaning of pineapple.

ornamental pineapples

In the scientific binomial Ananas comosus, ananas, the original name of the fruit, comes from the Tupi (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) word for pine nanas, as recorded by André Thevenet in 1555 and comosusmeans “tufted” and refers to the stem of the fruit. Many languages use the Tupian term ananas. In Spanish, pineapples are called piña“pine cone” in Spain and most Hispanic American countries, or ananá(ananás in Argentina ) They have varying names in anarosh (Bengali), and in Malayalam, kaitha chakka. In Malay, pineapples are known as “nanas” or “nenas”. In the Maldivian language of Dhivehi , pineapples are known as alanaasi.

The Spaniards had introduced this fruit at an early date in the Philippines in the early 1570’s during the Manila -Acapulco galleon trade. The fruits were brought during the galleon trade as a sourced for food and to some extent Vitamin C . The top portion of the fruit were the source of the planting materials .

According to some historical books, some pineapples were found growing in semi-naturalized areas in Palawan and in many parts of the country by 1640’s.

Local people who already knew how to extract natural fibers from local plants had a new sourced of fiber derived from the leaves of the pineapple.

Manila Cathedral with pineapple design

So important that the pineapple in local culture that pineapple design and motif was included in architecture like the pineapple design on the facade of Manila Cathedral, the pulpit of San Agustin Church, candle holder, fruit trays, stamps and the most important use of the pineapple fabric is in the Philippine national costume.

These pineapple fabric and embroidery were very important that the most important pieces are given to royalties like Queen Isabel 2 of Spain, Queen Victoria of England , foreign dignitaries, the pope among others.

Piña a Spanish word which means pineapple, are growing anywhere in the country like Tagaytay in Cavite, Calauan , Quezon and in Daet , Camarines Norte although Southern Philippines produces the most. One of the largest Pineapple plantation and producers in the world, DOLE, owns roughly half the overall pineapple farm proving the climate makes the best type of fruit. Pineapple textiles are most commonly called Piña in the Philippines.

ladies fashion made from knitted pineapple fabrics

Piña textiles are from the pineapple leaves and fibers, often mixed with silk to produce a great couture clothing with nice and elegant touch.

Aklan is the main and the oldest manufacturer/weaver of Piña cloth in the Philippines which are being exported to various parts of the world most particularly North America, and Europe. While Lumban in the province of Laguna, Taal in Batangas are center for embroidery of pineapple fabrics. Piña weaving is an age-old tradition .

Piña and Jusi are the traditional fabrics used by the bordadoras. Piña is a soft, fine, flexible, and durable off-white fabric about two to four inches in length. It is derived from the finest mature leaves of the red Spanish variety of pineapple. During the Spanish period, piña was the most expensive and highly sought fabric worn for barong Tagalog by the illustrados on very rare special occasions It is a very delicate material, too difficult and expensive to embroider. Jusi (the Chinese term for raw silk), on the other hand, is a lightweight, flimsy, and ecru colored fabric regarded by the bordadoras as the best material for embroidery

Pineapple silk is considered the queen of Philippine fabrics and is considered the fabric of choice of the Philippine elite. During the 1996 edition of APEC in the Philippines, world leaders donned a pineapple silk Barong Tagalog the traditional group photo.

Miss Precious Lara Quigaman in a pineapple inspired national costume

Photo courtesy : http://www.missosology.org

a local Filipino company Nooks company , Ltd. had made new innovations from the pineapple fabrics into everyday casual wear from jackets , knitted hats among others. The company is now exporting these fashion items from all over the world .

Nooks Co. Ltd exhibit booth during the 50th Manila F.A.M.E.

Nooks Co. Ltd. is a manufacturer of sweaters/knitwear. It is a collaboration between Ms. Emeretha Daniel, Elizabeth Lee, Martyn Standen and people whose talents in this industry remain unmatched. The company also hosted a fashion show last October 21,2009 in SMX center where new product line were introduced to the local and international market.

The company’s social responsibility helps farming communities from Zambales and Aklan by purchasing their pineapple fabrics and properly cultivation of pineapples.

For more information:

Address:Unit H, 5th Flr., Westgate Tower, Muntinlupa City, Metro Manila, Philippines

Contact No:842 5877

Fax No:842 5877

Contact Person :

Mr. Francisco Tacio

Sales & Marketing- Dept. Head Unit H, 5th Floor, Westgate Tower,

Investment Drive, Madrigal Business Park, Ayala Alabang, Muntinlupa City, 1780, Philippines

Tel./Fax No. 00 63 2 842-5877 / 00 63 2 807-0557

Mobile No. 09084995989

Planting tips:

Pineapples are very easy to grow from their tops. Since you are going to plant it, you bought it based upon the condition of the leaves. Just cut the top off about two inches down from the top of the pineapple. Let it sit on it’s side for about two or three days to allow the cut to skin over. Then dust the cut area lightly with rooting hormone and pot it up with the dirt up to the base of the leaves. Go easy on the sun and the water for about one month or so until it establishes it’s roots. The plant will benefit from a daily misting of water on its’ leaves during and after this period. Then it can stand all of the heat and sun you can give it. Be sure not to over water it though.

Most of the pineapple fields were at the 1000-2000 ft. elevation where it is slightly cooler than at sea level. Pineapple may bloom after about 2 years after planting.

(oct 27, 2009)

BUNGA CHINA UBOD RECIPE 2009

Adonidia merrillii

Adonidia merrillii or Veitchia merrillii –this palm was named to honor Mr. James Veitch a British nurseryman (1792 -1863) .Common names: Bunga China , Bunga de Jolo, Christmas palm, Manila palm

Manila palm is a small, fast growing; palm not taller than 25′ and often much smaller.

It resembles a dwarf royal palm.This is a straight trunked palm with indistinct rings.

Adonidia has clusters of bright red, drupe-like fruits and inconspicuous unisexual, white – yellow flowers.

By late September the green fruits are beginning to ripen and by late November they are bright red!The fruits are 1¼” in diameter while the seeds are ½” and borne below the crown shaft. The leaf is feather – shaped and the leaflets are trusted in on it.

Bunga China Ubod  Recipe courtesy by Mr. Nonito Dolera

Ingredients:

Filling:

• 2 tbsp. oil
• 2 piece garlic clove, crushed
• 2 piece onion, thinly sliced
• 4 oz/100 g parboiled lean pork, diced
• 2 oz/50 g ham, shredded ( shredded bacon bits/ chicken breast optional )
• 4 tbsp. peeled chopped prawn
• 2 oz/50 g cooked chickpeas
• 8 oz/200 g ubod (manila palm hearts), shredded thinly sliced.
• 6 oz/150 g French beans, shelled
• 1 carrot, shredded
• 12 oz/250 g cabbage, shredded
• sprigs onions
• salt and pepper
• 12 crisp lettuce leaves
• 12 lumpia wrappers

Lumpiang Bunga china ubod sauce

• ¼ pint (or more) chicken stock
• 2 oz/50 grams brown sugar or muscovado sugar 
• 2 tbsp. soy sauce
• 1 tbsp. cornstarch / corn flour
• 3 tbsp. cold water
• 2-3 tsp. finely minced garlic
• crushed peanuts

Lumpia Wrapper:

• 2 to 3 eggs
• 3 oz/75 g cornflour
• ½ pint/250 ml water
• vegetable oil

How to cook the ingredients:

Filling:

• Heat the oil and lightly fry the onion and garlic until soft.
• Add the pork and ham, cook, stirring for a few minutes.
• Add prawns and chickpeas and cook a little longer.
• Stir in the ubod, beans, carrot and cabbage.
• Season with salt and pepper.
• Cover and simmer until the vegetables are just tender. Drain and cool.
• Wrap a portion of the filling and a sprigs onion in a lettuce leaf and then in a pancake.
• Serve with Lumpiang ubod sauce.

Lumpia Wrapper:

• Separate the eggs and whisk the whites until very stiff. Fold into the lightly beaten yolks.
• Blend the cornstarch with water, adding the water gradually to ensure smoothness.
• Stir thoroughly into the egg. Lightly brush the frying pan with oil and heat.
• Using 2 tbsp. of lumpia batter at a time, fry very thin pancakes.
• Tilt the pan to spread the batter evenly, do not turn and do not allow the pancakes to color.

Sauce:

• Bring the stock to the boil with the sugar, soy sauce and salt.
• Blend the cornstarch with the cold water and stir it into the stock.
• Simmer, stirring for 3 to 4 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
• Sprinkle the minced garlic and chopped peanuts on the top.
• Add sesame seeds ( optional)

(oct 28,2009)

TAENIOPHYLLUM – ONE OF THE SMALLEST ORCHID IN THE WORLD 2009

picture taken in Quezon province:

Taeniophyllum sp. Blume

Common Names: Pin head orchid, minute orchid, leafless orchid , tapeworm orchid

INTRODUCTION: A genus of leafless orchids. Around one hundred eighty to two hundred species in this genus are distributed from India, Sri Lanka, Japan, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia , Southeast Asia the Philippines to New Guinea, Australia, some Pacific Islands as far as Tahiti. New Guinea is considered to be the centre of distribution with some eighty species alone, some of which may prove to be con specific.

GENUS NAME: The genus name is taken from the Greek tainia(band, fillet, ribbon) and phyllon (leaf) in a reference not clearly understood as these orchids are leafless.

Its scientific name means, rather unattractively, ‘tapeworm leaf’. Its roots have not only developed into flat, tapeworm-like shapes several yards long that writhe statically all over the branch on which the plant sits.

Type Species : Taeniophyllum glandulosum Blume

CHARACTERISTICS : The species in the genus are small to very small leafless epiphytes with flattened green roots which contain chlorophyll and have taken over the photosynthetic role of the leaves. The leaves are reduced to minute, overlapping scales covering the stem apex. The flowers of the species are very short-lived, they are mostly greenish-white to yellow.

Taeniophyllums have small brown scales instead of leaves and the process of photosynthesis is carried out in the green roots. Most members of this genus grow upon the twigs of rain forest trees and in cultivation.

NUMBER OF SECTIONS IN THE GENUS: The genus is divided into two sub-genera and six sections along their difference in united or free sepals and petals.

HABITAT: Not easily detected in their natural habitat the species grow on tree trunks either near the forest floor or among the dense foliage of the smaller twigs. They are found from sea level to about 1000 m.

In the Philippines , some species could be seen growing on mango trees and small trees. This orchid prefers to be undisturbed and could not survive on long dry conditions.

(OCT 31,2009)

HERITAGE TREES 2009

old trees behind the main building

Far Eastern University is one unique institution that had molded hundreds of thousands of its alumni, employees and even passerby to the campus vicinity. This institution had preserved its unique architectural heritage which earned 1st runner-up mention during the 2005 UNESCO – for the largest and best preserved Art Deco architecture ensemble in the entire country. Various national artists like Vicente Manansala, Pablo Ocampo Sr., Carlos “Botong ” Francisco, Antonio Dumlao , Robert Ko and international artists like Italian sculptor Francesco Monti made its lasting contributions to the university.

But, silent testimonies to the university history are its living natural heritage found inside its main campus located inside Nicanor Reyes Sr. street (formerly Morayta). Several trees like acacia (Samanea saman) and narra (Pitherocarpus indicus ) were carefully planted and nurtured by its founding president Dr. Nicanor Reyes Sr .in the early 1930’s. During convocation in the university before the outbreak of war, the late President Manuel L. Quezon visited the university in 1940 and paid unsolicited tribute to Dr. Reyes “ as an educational builder”. The trees were already several years old back then and the student population is more than 10,000. Then during the early part of the bombing of the Philippines in 1941, Dr. Reyes was only person among the officials of the university to visit the school every morning to check the school premises and usually hands over the keys of the post office inside the school compound.

When the Japanese brought chaos to the country, The Imperial army had occupied the school compound and the school was crisscrossed with foxholes and the whole place was enclosed with barbed wire. The university became a veritable prison and was made a headquarter of the Kempetai (Japanese military police) the trees were the silent hostages, the army used some of the branches as firewood or bonfires which lighted the campus grounds since there was lacked of electricity.

On February 5, 1945 at around 7:00 pm heavy bombing and air raid were rampant in the Sampaloc area. Battle was ranged in the vicinity as the Japanese in heavily fortified campus sternly opposed the American advance. When the American occupied the university the school was re-opened during the second semester in 1945 .the Americans also set up quonset huts at the quadrangle which was later converted into classrooms. The trees were also there to witness the university rise in the ashes of the war.

After the war, some trees still stood within the campus, while some of the trees were toppled down by typhoons that had hit Manila during the 1960’s and 1970’s. These trees were also there when then president Cory had visited the campus in 1987 .

present day- FEU chapel with narra trees

Somehow trees do tell stories of happy individuals, students who stayed under their canopy, famous personalities and common people who happily stayed under these old majestic trees inside the campus that is not only known for its architectural heritage but also living natural heritage that one will surely become a link to a distant past.

The university also had a guided tours around the campus which attracts art , environment , architecture and heritage advocates for more information:

Address: Nicanor Reyes Sr. Street ( formerly Morayta) Sampaloc, Manila

Telephone : 735-56 21 loc. 283 Alumni Affairs ( Mr. Martin Lopez)

Monday to Friday -Office Hours

(September 15, 2009)

UNIQUE COLLECTIONS ! 2009

Collections of Mrs. Adoracion S. Bernabe

Tita Dorie as she is fondly remembered by her peers in various plant societies and other affiliate organizations had vast collections of plants, rocks, stones, memorabilia , paintings , antique and stamps among others in her Pansol Laguna home.

She is the current president of Cactus & Succulent Society of the Philippines and also an active member and officer of various horticultural societies across the country.

For security reasons , the author will not disclose the exact location of her home and the extent of her own collection.

(September 15, 2009)

PRESIDENT CORAZON AQUINO TRIBUTE 2009

President Corazon Aquino tribute exhibit booth landscaped by Mr. Kelvin Manubay, Mr. Jun Golamco, Mr. Rommel Arriola, Mr. Lawrence Chan with the help of Mr. Edilberto Capague Jr. and Mr. Jiffy Alegre during the 63rd Mid-Year Orchid & Garden Show last August 27 to September 7 , 2009 at Quezon Cityhall grounds

Maria Corazon “Cory” Sumulong Cojuangco Aquino (January 25, 1933 – August 1, 2009) was the President of the Philippines and is considered as “Mother of Democracy” in the Philippines. Serving from 1986 to 1992, she was the first female president of the Philippines and the first female president of any country in Asia.

Unknown to many, she is a nature and an orchid lover. In 1989, in response to government’s encouragement to develop the ornamental, floriculture and horticulture industry, many members of the Orchid Society of Davao, Inc. (OSDI) shifted to orchid growing as a business venture. This was fully endorsed by then President Corazon C. Aquino when she declared Davao City as the Orchid Center of the Philippines in 1992 through Proclamation No. 886.

During the incumbency of President Corazon “Cory” Aquino, several orchid genus and ornamental plant cultivars were named after her. Dr. Romeo Gutierrez a well-known plant breeder, a three term president of Philippine Horticultural Society, antique collector , art collector and also a painter bred Aglaonema Cory, a cultivar of the aglaonema that was named after former President Corazon Aquino. Its broad, dark green leaves consist of a herringbone pattern of grayish-silver,with yellow marks along the midrib. Like the sunburst, the yellow coloration of the young leaves becomes conspicuous through proper light conditions. It has white petioles and many suckers.

Aglaonema Corazon Aquino bred by Dr. Romeo Gutierrez

This Aglaonema won the ” Best Ornamental Plant in Show” of the Philippine Horticultural Society show held on February 10 to 17, 1990 at the Manila Seedling Bank Foundation . Coincidentally the plaque was donated by house majority floor leader Mr. and Mrs. Francisco Sumulong a relative of Mrs. Aquino maternal side.

Photo Courtesy of Singapore Botanic Gardens by: Mr. Whang Lay Keng – Head Living Collection

On the occasion of her state visit and the ASEAN head of state meeting in the island state of Singapore on August 26 , 1986 the Singapore Botanic Garden named Dendrobium Corazon Aquino(Parentage: Dendrobium Tien Soeharto x Dendrobium Noor Aishah) an orchid hybrid after the incumbent leader.

According to the Royal Horticultural Society of London this orchid was registered on January 1, 1986 in their list. SGB institute had the tradition of breeding and naming new orchid cultivars after famous world leaders, politicians, and celebrities.

On numerous occasions she would be invited to come, as guest of honor during various orchid & garden shows held by different garden clubs from all over the country. She was one of the guest of honor on the 46th annual orchid and garden show of the Philippine Orchid Society held at the Makati SM Car Park compound in February 1992.

Several years later, Atty. Hernando Perez, one of her former cabinet secretaries, developed a new breed of orchid and named it after her. He thought it was just right to breed BLC. Benigno Aquino an inter-generic yellow colored orchid variety. The good quality traits of the orchid made it a desirable breeding parent material for developing new breeds of orchid.

The orchid hybrid took 5 years to grow, using cross-pollination methods. Its “mother and father” plants are a variety of yellow orchid named BLC. Benigno Aquino (pod parent) and the greenish BLC. Malvarosa Jade ( pollen parent).

The Blc Cory Aquino orchid (Brassolaeliocattleya Cory Aquino) with code name HC – 547 -, bred by former Justice Secretary Hernando B. Perez, is a graceful but sturdy plant with yellow and green varieties.

Because of the breeding traits of BLC. Malvarosa Jade, there are 2 color forms of the BLC. Cory Aquino that can be found. One is yellow and the other is greenish yellow. All forms are highly sought after by orchid and plant collectors worldwide.

63rd Mid-Year Orchid & Garden Show poster

The color yellow is widely associated with both Sen. Ninoy and Cory Aquino, since they used this color in clothes or campaign paraphernalia. In retirement, in fact, the former president took up painting, with flowers as her chosen still life subjects. Flowers were also one of former President Aquino’s favorite painting subjects finding the task a form of relaxation and a way of relieving stress. Having stepped down from office in 1992, Tita Cory, as she is fondly remembered, was quite content at becoming an ordinary citizen once again, but remained active in social work, and in wielding her undiminished moral authority whenever the democratic institutions she helped restore came under threat.

Unlike most orchids that need to be propped up, the Blc Cory Aquino stands erect and proud, much like the ideologies of the late former president.

According to Nani Perez, “This orchid hybrid symbolizes strength of her character because it is a sturdy plant. Pirmeng naka-tindig yun eh. Pirmeng proud.” It is also feminine-looking but with a strong bearing. Its petals are light yellow which means it is long-lasting,” he added.

In the last quarter of 2004, Perez said he was able to give her a pot of his best Blc. Cory Aquino and the plant’s registry certificate from the Royal Horticultural Society, a London-based international group that registers orchid hybrids.

Atty. Perez was also featured in the “orchid episode” of “ Kapuso Mo Jessica Soho” aired last February 23, 2008 on GMA channel 7. The episode featured him as an orchid and a plant breeder since 1974 and among the orchid hybrids featured in the episode was the BLC. Cory Aquino, Blc. Ninoy Aquino among others. A portion of the episode was uploaded in the KMJS website.

In a recent television guest interview on ABS-CBN channel 2- top rated morning show “ Umagang Kay Ganda” last August 4, 2009 with Ms. Donita Rose, He was also able to present the original Royal Horticultural Society certificate of orchid registration with frame and potted flowering orchid to the late president, this gesture made her very happy.

In the Flora Filipina Expo 2006 held from February 24 to March 5,2006 jointly organized by the Philippine Orchid Society (POS) and Philippine Horticultural Society (PHS) within the ruins of San Ignacio in Intramuros. In this international event, the winning orchid ( BLC. Cory Aquino) brought attention of the orchid breeders around the world that the Philippines had orchid hybidizers like Mr. Perez which breeds award winning orchids.

In the 61st Mid-Year Orchid and Garden Show held from Aug. 29 to Sept. 10, 2007, the same orchid cultivar’s won the “Best Philippine Hybrid” award one of the highest recognition that a breeder can get. – Perez said Aquino sent him a text message congratulating him for the “prize-winning orchid.” He still keeps the text message on his phone to this day.

Breeders from Japan, Thailand , United Kingdom, USA and local orchid collectors were very eager to have a division or sample of this award winning orchid hybrid.

Cory Aquino’s big role, not only for the restoration of the democracy in the Philippines, but also for the development of the local horticulture industry, cannot be underestimated. With the whole world paying homage to the former president, this is a small gratitude that any horticulturist or plant lover from all over the world can give.

(SEPTEMBER 17, 2009)

A COLLECTOR’S HUMBLE ABODE 2009

Ms. May Dumlao is a former educator, editor and an entrepreneur . She is known to have a fine collection of ferns, hoyas, orchids, bromeliads, aroids and is an active member of Philippine Horticultural Society, Fern and Nature Society of the Philippines.

An specimen sized Platycerium sp. in Ms. Mae Dumlao’s garden

Her home is also a favorite hangout of the members of the societies and even friends of her children since the place is quite accessible. She also recalled that television crew and movie outfit would ask permission to have a location shoot inside her home.

Tita Mae had various collections of paintings and sketches from reknown Philippine artists that were prominently hanged in her sala, dining room, bedroom and even near the passageway. In one instance, a photographer from a lifestyle magazine wanted to take pictures and to do stories of her famed painting collections, but this would entail the removal of these valuable items to be removed from their location. She politely decided not to allow the crew to feature her collections.

Her additional collection also includes matchboxes, ceramics, gongs and at one time collected stamps, paper bills and even Santos made from local Philippine wood. According to her relatives, peers, students and children gave most of the collection that were accumulated in a span of over 40 years. Part of her collection also included old ceramic plates and jars from the Ming and Manchu dynasty, which were excavated by her group during the 1960’s in an undisclosed excavation sites in one of the provinces up north.

Back then; people would not dare collect these items since they believe that these things would bring bad luck. Most of the rare finds were being bought by foreigners like Taiwanese, Japanese and even Americans which would hire local treasure hunters. We just collected the ordinary ones and even dug some of the ceramics ourselves. In some instances, whenever we had a time to go to the beach we also collect shells.

She is also a writer, editor, cook, emcee among others.

(September 17, 2009)

A BOTANIC GARDEN AND FARM 2009

Portion of the resort -style farm

This is a private farm garden owned by one of Metro Manila’s famous politician . The tour group was escorted by a security group upon reaching the place.

Koi Pond

The group saw a lot of collections ranging from family pictures, paintings , antiques, potteries, furniture, santos, jars, figurines, furniture , books and the south east Asian style inspired architecture in each of the pavilion like structures which resembles Bali in Indonesia , Bangkok or even in Mainland China .

Asian inspired pavilion guarded by Chinese- Fu dogs

There is like a big botanic garden which had themed landscape from European style manicured lawn and themed portions which separates expensive palms, adeniums, ornamental plants, shrubs and flowering trees including several aviaries .

Shade house filled with blooming Dendrobium anosmum

Dendrobium anosmum locally known as( sanggumay ), Vanda hybrids, Vanda teres and native orchids

There are also several big green houses which housed the collections of cacti, succulents, orchids, bromeliads,ferns,cycads ,aroids and anthuriums.

According to one of the caretakers, this is like a wonderland of plants from different parts of the world. The collection of the exotic plants spanned over 30 years which started during the pre-martial law days .

The group was treated to a sumptuous buffet style lunch which offered the best from the area.The group were very happy to spend some time in the resort style farm . Photo opportunities and small chit chat with the gracious hosts were the done after the lunch break.

man -made lagoon planted with lotus

There are several man-made pond and lagoons within the property which serves as a planting area for lotus, water lilies and were Peking ducks swim.

colorful service vehicle

The group needed a small service vehicle in order to tour the entire property.

Before the end of the day the group was again treated for a light afternoon snacks which consists of native rice cakes, young coconut pie , nuts and soft drinks.

crucifixion tableau scene late 19th century

According to the owner , they are planning to open the property to the public for a fee in a few years to come . The place is perfect for weddings, parties, location shooting , photo opportunity, convention , meeting place or simply a place to relax and to admire the wonders of nature.

(Original post September 18 2009)

GAMMATOPHYLLUM WALLISII THE BIGGEST ORCHID IN THE WORLD 2009

This is the specimen sized Grammatophyllum wallisii or Grammatophyllum speciosum native to the Philippines and was growing on a boulder in one of the houses near the town of Dolores in Quezon . According to the owner, this orchid blooms every 3 to 5 year interval and based on the orchid size , the orchid is at least 50 years old . Several years ago an orchid collector offered to buy the orchid but the owner does not want to sell . Local taxonomist are still in a debate if this particular orchid found in Quezon is a distinct species or just a variety since the color of the flowers and marking are quite distinct .

Grammatophyllum wallisii or Grammatophyllum speciosum

The Giant Orchid, Grammatophyllum speciosum also called Tiger Orchid because of the spotting in the flowers which resembles tiger marks , Sugar Cane Orchid or ” Malatubong Dapo ” because the pseudoblubs resembles large sugar canes . People also call this particular orchid as Queen of the Orchids, since this is the world’s largest and bulkiest orchid . It is native to growing in crotches of large trees on exposed areas of the lowland tropical rain forest. This species was first described by botanist Carl Blume in 1825.

The cylindric pseudobulbs reach 10 feet or 3 meters in height with leaves along the full length.

It is an epiphytic and occasionally a lithophytic plant, forming spectacular root bundles. It can grow to gigantic clusters weighing from several hundred kilograms to more than one ton. The orchid can produce over 10,000 flowers on a mature plant.

The orchid can be found growing within 100 to 1,200 meters elevation in Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia, Borneo, Moluccas, the Philippines, Sulawesi, Sumatra, Bismark islands, Papua New Guinea, Brunei, East Timor and Solomon island and is recorded to be the heaviest orchid in the world.

A Giant Orchid weighing two tons was one of the highlights in the 1851 exhibition at Crystal Palace in London according to a scientific journal.

There are some growers of this orchid in Metro Manila however this orchid is quite temperamental in blooming within the metropolis. This orchid needed to be conserved and protected.

(Orig post @september 18 2009)

SAINT ANNE CHURCH 2009

Saint Anne Church in Taguig City 

This 400 year old church was a survivor of war and calamities but still held its ground and now the center of Catholic Churches in Taguig City, Philippines. The town celebrates fiesta every July 26.

centuries-old acacia tree within the church patio

The old acacia tree ( Samanea saman ) is a mute witness to the revolution of 1896 , the American occupation of the town , the Japanese atrocities during the war and the post war economic boom of the town.

collection of various church artifacts

The church had accumulated collection of priest vestments, books, baptismal record, old photographs, antique santos set in a museum.

Ms. Sandra Aguinaldo -program host ” I-Witness report “

Ms. Sandra Aguinaldo – I-Witness program host , segment writer and reporter featured this in ” Puno ng Kasaysayan” or ” Historical Trees” episode of the program aired last October 7 , 2008 early Tuesday morning on GMA kapuso channel 7.

In some instances , people within the community believed that there are unseen spirits living within these heritage trees. Cutting or hurting these trees made some environmental group like tree huggers a crusade that is worth emulating .

tree huggers with Ms. Sandra Aguinaldo

In a country plagued with selective amnesia especially in history and heritage , where saving heritage trees are not a priority of the government . It is almost up to the communities where these trees lives to nurture and save these trees.

(ORIGINAL POST@WP SEPTEMBER 30, 2009)