[WB-FLORAL] The lepidoptera orchid

The lepidoptera orchid

Most commonly found in a hot and humid environments. Can be found on any layer with these conditions!

The lepidoptera orchid flower, also known as the butterfly orchid, mimics the wings of a butterfly in its leaves, which is where it’s name stems from. If provided with enough enrichment, such as sunlight and good quality soil, this plant can grow up to 6 feet tall. Despite looking flimsy and easy to pick off the ground in its juvenile stages, this flower roots itself into the ground with thick roots, unable to be moved once sprouted.

This plant solely lives off of sunlight and water, it does not need anything else. However, it is proven to grow stronger and faster in soil that contains animal carcasses or rich mulch. It has also been shown to grow with brighter and more vibrant colors in these conditions. Despite these disturbing facts, the lepidoptera orchid does not cause any harm to living animals, in fact, it aids them. The juice, or nectar, gathered within the orchid’s flower is rich in sugar and vitamins. Animals often thirsty or exhausted, can drink from this plant and gain back their energy. This does not Harm the animal or the plant, and seems to be proven as more of a symbiotic relationship between the two. It’s written in a couple survival guides by Tatsukoi, that they can bring the nectar along when they run out of water, replenishing their strength.

Most of them come In shades of pink or purple, but in rare cases they can also be shown to be yellow. Farmers can use the flower to feed their lifestock and improve quality of life, but also give the flower their leftovers and waste as a composter.

Once at its adult stage, it will sprout butterfly shaped fruits during the spring, and start hanging downwards due to the fruit’s weight. After the fruits have fully matured and been plucked, the flower will continue it’s lifespan. Butterfly orchids sprout 5-10 fruits each spring, depending on size and environment the orchid can last up to a decade. Once it’s last fruit has been plucked, the orchid will shrivel up and waste away over the course of a month, completing it’s lifespan.