South Coast Orchid Society

The South Coast Orchid Society will present a program by Michelle Dobard-Anderson entitled “Dockrillia Dendrobiums” on Monday, Nov. 27, at 7 p.m. at the Whaley Park Community Center, 5620 E. Atherton St. in Long Beach. Donbard’s interest in orchids started in 2000 as a result of a chance encounter while she was buying supplies for her koi fish.

Since then, her interest has grown, and she is now an accredited judge with the American Orchid Society (AOS). She is also a Trustee of the AOS, chair of the Audit Committee, and a member of the Education Committee. Dockrillia orchids are odd, succulent plants, some with leaves that look like little pickles. They are native to parts of Australia, where they are very popular as garden curiosities. They are harder to find in the U.S., but they can grow outdoors in Long Beach. They produce clouds of starry white flowers.

Orchids grown by members and visitors will be on display. The event is free and open to the public.