The mystery photo is of an orchid blossom. Orchids are some of the most varied plants in the whole world. There are over 25,000 species known to scientists, which is about 10% of all the known plants on Earth!
Orchids can grow in a variety of different conditions. Some grow high in dry mountain environments, but the greatest number of species grows in the tropical rainforests. Orchids don't need soil to grow, just somewhere to receive sunlight and a place to plant its roots. Orchids can grow out of rocks, trees, or even out of water.
South and Central America are home to more orchid species than anywhere else. Even though orchids are tougher than they look, they can be quite particular about where they grow. Some orchids are extremely rare and can only be found in very, very specific habitats. Some orchids grow only particular trees in particular forests. That means that the same tree species growing 20 miles away won't have any orchids on it.
They are all of our favorite flowers, because of their beauty and variety.
