The Guaria Morada (also called Guarianthe Skinneri), symbol of the country of Costa Rica, is a beautiful orchid that can be found growing naturally in humid environments.

This curious and beautiful orchid is also the National Flower of Costa Rica, it is part of the flora of Manuel Antonio, being the most important flower in the gardens of La Mariposa Hotel.

It is the favorite flower of Lent, the heraldic flower of Holy Week; It is not only closely linked to the traditions of the country, but it is also one of the national symbols.

It is called “purple guaria” because of the reddish purple color of its flowers, similar to that of blackberries. The appearance of its flowers during the month of March, in addition to the appreciation that the Costa Rican has for it, make this flower be used for the adornment of altars during Lent and the celebrations of Holy Week.

The representation of the three colors is as follows: blue represents the sky that covers and protects Costa Rica; white symbolizes the peace that exists in the country and the purity of its ideals; red evokes the energy, courage and detachment of the Costa Rican people when they defend their system …

The National Flower of Costa Rica is internationally recognized as a trophy orchid by many horticultural societies.

The Guaria Morada from Costa Rica thrives in a humid environment. It is an epiphyte, which means it harmlessly attaches itself to a growing tree and is not a parasite. Guaria Skinneri can be found in all the warmer geographic regions of the Western Hemisphere, from Florida and Mexico in Central America and throughout the Caribbean.

Its Catteley Skinneri petals are sometimes alba and coerulea in color, but are considered hybrids. In Costa Rica, the orchid blooms from January to April, with the most prolific blooms in March.

Ticos say that the flower is a good luck charm that will bring good fortune to the home. During Lent and Holy Week, the churches of Costa Rica are brilliantly decorated with this lightly scented purple flower.