Plant
Holy Ghost Orchid
Peristeria elataAlso known as Dove Orchid
Holy Ghost Orchids produce tall flower stalks above broad pleated leaves and rounded pseudobulbs. Each waxy white flower has a central structure whose shape suggests a small dove with spread wings.
terrestrial orchidwhite flowerforest floor
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Near ThreatenedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNear ThreatenedRed List categories, explained →
Diet & preyProduces energy through photosynthesis and relies on fungal partners during germination and early growth
Predators
- slugs
- snails
- grazing mammals
ThreatsIllegal collection, forest clearing, drainage, trampling, and disruption of soil fungi
HabitatsHumid lowland forest floor, shaded valleys, and seasonally wet terrestrial sites
Life spanA long-lived perennial that may persist for many years when its site remains intact
Classification
- FamilyOrchidaceae
- SpeciesPeristeria elata
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Never collect wild orchids or disclose precise locations of vulnerable plants.
Responsible observation
- Identify: Look for pleated leaves and a white flower with a dove-like central column.
- Protect: Photograph from firm ground without touching flowers, roots, or surrounding soil.
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