kitfox
Well-Known Member
One of the prizes from my last adventure into the Woodstream jungle. Two blooms, one spike-for maybe a day or two! Wasn’t familiar with this hybrid, but it looks like it takes the “climbing” habit from mama besseae.
Phrag ‘China Dragon’
- Thread starter kitfox
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Lovely China Dragon! Mine hasn't started climbing yet. Fingers crossed that it won't...I have enough
climbing Phrags. to chase.
climbing Phrags. to chase.
kitfox
Well-Known Member
I have an ancient besseae that I purchased from a Mr. Kovach at Southwind Orchids back in the 90’s. It is a true vine! If I would stop dividing it, I think I could wallpaper my home in living green!
blondie
Well-Known Member
Very nice
I did not know China Dragon was a climber! Hmm. I am rethinking its placement on my wish list
kitfox
Well-Known Member
This fan has three new growths emerging. I will learn a lot from them about it’s nature!
THE Mr. James Michael Kovach?
kitfox
Well-Known Member
Yes, and I have such fond memories of meeting him. His greenhouse was in a remote part of the Virginia countryside, and it felt a little like an expedition just locating it.
I visited twice (well before that beautiful purplish-pink beast) and I liken him to another couple of botany adventurers I have been fortunate enough to meet, Dan Hinkley and Tony Avent. Just like those two, he found his love, and I am sure none of the trio have any regrets. IMHO, Michael was just about a decade off in his timing. I certainly could have listened to him for hours, even back then in the 90s. Now, I am sure I could listen for days!
No hackles have been raised, I hope!
R.I.P.
No, of course no hackles. I think it's kind of cool.
I think I might be just a bit envious. ;>)
I love eccentric and controversial figures in the orchid world... they bring a spicy taste to the proper orchid regulations, worthy of lengthy conversations with some tea and biscuits.
kitfox
Well-Known Member
Southwind wasn’t terribly far from you, abax, I wonder if he is still there? A google search shows it is still in Goldvein, VA. Dr. Goldner at Woodstream talked like he was still around, but the conversation drifted off to kovachii nomenclature and provenance, and I didn’t try to steer it back.
As I said above, he is a fascinating gentleman with that seemingly rare ability to sit down and engage with you as if he had nothing else to do. Memorable. And exceedingly rare these days.
As I said above, he is a fascinating gentleman with that seemingly rare ability to sit down and engage with you as if he had nothing else to do. Memorable. And exceedingly rare these days.
