About WNCOS
The Western North Carolina Orchid Society is a registered 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation focused on sharing a passion for orchid cultivation and native orchid conservation. The Society was originally formed in September of 1962 and is an affiliate of the American Orchid Society.
The Society typically meets at 2:00 PM on the second Sunday of each month at the Asheville Visitor Center, located at 36 Montford Ave., Asheville, NC 28801. All orchid lovers are welcome to attend our meetings and are free and open to the public. Everyone is welcome, no experience necessary – just an appreciation of the fantastic variety of the world of orchids and a desire to learn more! Most meetings feature marvelous guest speakers, a show and tell session for members to show off and discuss their currently in-bloom orchids, and a raffle for orchids and orchid growing supplies.
Join Us!
Photo of shomburgkia orchid courtesy of Meke Aloha Orchids
July 08, 2018
The July meeting will feature Paul Storm of Meke Aloha Orchids in Sarasota, Florida. Storm is considered throughout the world as a leading expert on Schomburgkia orchids, which have recently been reclassified as Laelia and Myrmecophila orchids based on genetic data and morphological characteristics. Storm will be discussing these fascinating plants and their changing classifications with our members!
Photo of Fredclarkeara After Dark courtesy of Sunset Valley Orchids
August 12, 2018
This August WNCOS will have the immense pleasure of again hosting Fred Clarke of Sunset Valley Orchids. Clarke has over 40 years experience growing orchids and is a world-renowned specialist in hybridizing, perhaps best-known for his pioneering work with Catasetum intergeneric hybrids resulting in "the blackest flower ever witnessed," Fredclarkeara After Dark. More details on Clarke's presentation topic to come!
Photo of Bulbophyllum medusae courtesy of Oakwood Orchids
September 09, 2018
Jim France is an orchid enthusiast and grower based on Dayton, Ohio. At Oakwood Orchids, France specializes in more unique and rare varieties of orchids, such as a wide variety of Bulbophyllum and Lycaste. France also especially enjoys supporting the needs of individuals who wish to grow orchids without a greenhouse. WNCOS is very excited about his visit. Details on his presentation subject TBA!