Blossoming in an urban setting
With its array of beautiful orchids showcased through the window panes, The Orchidist, the newest orchid store in town opened in mid-August down Horton Place is sure to tempt those passing by to drop in.
Over 40 varieties of tissue cultured orchids imported from Bangkok – the Hisaku, Sonia, Dendrobium, Oncidium, Phalaenopsis, Mokara and Vanda creates a vibrant interior. Significantly, the store also has three rare varieties of orchids which have a fragrance, out of the four such types of Vanda orchids in the world.
Stunning display at The Orchidist. Pic by M.D. Nissanka
Subashini Gamage, Director of this family-run business says it was with the intention of making the orchid culture popular among Sri Lankans, and especially to promote orchids for gift giving that two years ago, the company established a nursery in a property in Waga, Padukka which currently has 59,000 plants in its green houses.
An orchid plant can be a perfect gift for your loved ones, she says, adding that it is a common practice in the West. Whereas a bouquet of flowers will wither away in few days, a flowering plant will remind the recipient of the person who gifted it every time the flowers bloom, she emphasises.
The Orchidist is open 365 days of the year and currently stocks cut flowers, plants, flower garlands and arrangements. The store opens at 6.30 a.m. and closes at 6.30 p.m, to accommodate customer requirements for early functions, says Subashini.
Orchid plant growers and even tourists with a keen interest are welcome to obtain tips and advice about orchid growing.
Subashini hopes to extend her line of products to jewellery made out of orchids as is done in countries like Singapore and Thailand.