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| Christine rests on hammock |
What does "paradise" mean to you? It can come in many different forms for different people. For some it is pristine beaches and palm trees, or striking mountains framed by colorful flowers or trees with fall foliage. For green thumbs it is flowers.
South Florida's paradise extends beyond our shores. Sometimes it is well hidden. One Sunday, my mother, a floral aficionado, and I took a road trip to Homestead, Florida about 45 minutes south of Miami to visit an orchid establishment.
R.F. Orchids is home to the world's finest vandaceous orchids, and one of South Florida's most beautiful tropical gardens.
As we pulled into the grounds, we were greeted by exotic ferns and other green plants. We immediately sensed this was a well kept secret paradise. Well a secret to us city folks.
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| The view of our parking spot |
This is not an attraction but an orchid greenhouse and shop. The letters R.F. stand for the initials of the owner, Robert Fuch.
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| My mom at entrance of indoor shop R.F. Orchids |
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| We can see why. |
RF Orchids boasts an enormous selection of orchid species, hybrids, and meristems, as well as Asian objets d'art and unique gifts.
They offer free escorted walking tours of the private garden at 11am and 3pm on Saturdays and Sundays, weather permitting.
As we wandered away from the greenhouse we encountered a gazebo, hidden waterfall and pavilion for private events. Who knew?!
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| Event at Banyan Pavilion (photo by B. Gross) |
As we left, friendly but silent garden animals watch us exit the grounds. Such a mystical place.
