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jasmonaatti

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🌿˚⋆⁺ Weird plants
🔬 Botanical art
🧪 PhD | Plant biology
🧬 @universityofhelsinki 🇫🇮

http://linktr.ee/Jasmonaatti

Let me introduce you to my newest obsession: 𝘗𝘴𝘦𝘶𝘥𝘰𝘨𝘭𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘴 𝘮𝘢𝘨𝘯𝘪𝘧𝘪𝘤𝘢, also known as the emerald cockroach 🪲✨

As their scientific name suggests, these roaches resemble pill millipedes (𝘎𝘭𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘴), and they are indeed magnificent! Their exoskeletons appear green, golden, or even blue depending on the viewing angle, thanks to iridescence. I have a soft spot for anything iridescent, whether it’s plants or minerals, so naturally, I fell in love with these bugs, too. 💚

Not only are they incredibly cute, with their twitching antennae, little feet, and determined strut, but they also have a fascinating lifestyle. Unlike many other cockroach species, emerald cockroaches are diurnal, meaning they’re active during the day. They’re also arboreal, so they absolutely love climbing on twigs (and even onto the lid of their terrarium!).🪳

Adult females are larger than males, but they retain their nymph-like appearance into adulthood, with their rounded, segmented abdomens. Males, meanwhile, develop wings. One of the most fascinating aspects of their behaviour is that emerald cockroaches give birth to live young and exhibit maternal care. After birth, the nymphs cling to the underside of their mother for protection until their first molt. Emerald cockroaches reproduce relatively slowly, giving birth to just 10–20 nymphs at a time—a tiny number for an insect! Female emerald cockroaches can also live for up to two years.

I bought 8 nymphs from @megaelain two weeks ago. It’s still too early to tell whether I have a mix of males and females, but I’m hoping to establish a breeding population. I’d absolutely love to see some mothers caring for their babies! Even now, I could watch these little creatures go about their lives for hours on end. 💚

#pseudoglomerismagnifica #emeraldcockroach #entomology #greenbuge #emeraldroach

Let me introduce you to my newest obsession: 𝘗𝘴𝘦𝘶𝘥𝘰𝘨𝘭𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘴 𝘮𝘢𝘨𝘯𝘪𝘧𝘪𝘤𝘢, also known as the emerald cockroach 🪲✨

As their scientific name suggests, these roaches resemble pill millipedes (𝘎𝘭𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘴), and they are indeed magnificent! Their exoskeletons appear green, golden, or even blue depending on the viewing angle, thanks to iridescence. I have a soft spot for anything iridescent, whether it’s plants or minerals, so naturally, I fell in love with these bugs, too. 💚

Not only are they incredibly cute, with their twitching antennae, little feet, and determined strut, but they also have a fascinating lifestyle. Unlike many other cockroach species, emerald cockroaches are diurnal, meaning they’re active during the day. They’re also arboreal, so they absolutely love climbing on twigs (and even onto the lid of their terrarium!).🪳

Adult females are larger than males, but they retain their nymph-like appearance into adulthood, with their rounded, segmented abdomens. Males, meanwhile, develop wings. One of the most fascinating aspects of their behaviour is that emerald cockroaches give birth to live young and exhibit maternal care. After birth, the nymphs cling to the underside of their mother for protection until their first molt. Emerald cockroaches reproduce relatively slowly, giving birth to just 10–20 nymphs at a time—a tiny number for an insect! Female emerald cockroaches can also live for up to two years.

I bought 8 nymphs from @megaelain two weeks ago. It’s still too early to tell whether I have a mix of males and females, but I’m hoping to establish a breeding population. I’d absolutely love to see some mothers caring for their babies! Even now, I could watch these little creatures go about their lives for hours on end. 💚

#pseudoglomerismagnifica #emeraldcockroach #entomology #greenbuge #emeraldroach

I forgot to show you the live model for my previous painting, 𝘗𝘢𝘱𝘩𝘪𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘭𝘶𝘮 Iona! 🖤🌱

She already flowered months ago, but is currently growing a new fan and looks rather happy, with lots of healthy roots. As a cross between 𝘗. 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘭𝘶𝘮 and 𝘗. 𝘧𝘢𝘪𝘳𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘢𝘯𝘶𝘮, I’m a bit concerned about whether it tolerates my temperatures (which are intermediate-warm throughout the year). I have good experiences growing 𝘗. 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘭𝘶𝘮 at room temperature, so perhaps this hybrid will be alright as well. Only time will tell, but I’d certainly be pleased to see another spike next year.

#paphiopedilum #orchidcollection #orchidnerds #plantnerds #plantsmakepeoplehappy

I forgot to show you the live model for my previous painting, 𝘗𝘢𝘱𝘩𝘪𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘭𝘶𝘮 Iona! 🖤🌱

She already flowered months ago, but is currently growing a new fan and looks rather happy, with lots of healthy roots. As a cross between 𝘗. 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘭𝘶𝘮 and 𝘗. 𝘧𝘢𝘪𝘳𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘢𝘯𝘶𝘮, I’m a bit concerned about whether it tolerates my temperatures (which are intermediate-warm throughout the year). I have good experiences growing 𝘗. 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘭𝘶𝘮 at room temperature, so perhaps this hybrid will be alright as well. Only time will tell, but I’d certainly be pleased to see another spike next year.

#paphiopedilum #orchidcollection #orchidnerds #plantnerds #plantsmakepeoplehappy

I’ve had several projects just waiting for their finishing touches, including this 𝘗𝘢𝘱𝘩𝘪𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘭𝘶𝘮 ’Iona’ (𝘗. 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘭𝘶𝘮 × 𝘧𝘢𝘪𝘳𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘢𝘯𝘶𝘮), one of my dream hybrids. 🖤⊹ ݁˖

I initially started this painting from a live specimen, but after taking a break to finish my PhD, I had to rely on photographs. Luckily, I took plenty while the plant was still in bloom! 📸

I also couldn’t resist using the metallic paints by @ondine_lab to emphasize the iconic sparkle of slipper orchid leaves. Even botanical paintings can be a bit whimsical, right? ✨

A3, watercolour on Arches hot-pressed 100% cotton paper.

#paphiopedilumiona #botanicalart #botanicalaquarelle #watercolorart #botanicalwatercolor

I’ve had several projects just waiting for their finishing touches, including this 𝘗𝘢𝘱𝘩𝘪𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘭𝘶𝘮 ’Iona’ (𝘗. 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘭𝘶𝘮 × 𝘧𝘢𝘪𝘳𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘢𝘯𝘶𝘮), one of my dream hybrids. 🖤⊹ ݁˖

I initially started this painting from a live specimen, but after taking a break to finish my PhD, I had to rely on photographs. Luckily, I took plenty while the plant was still in bloom! 📸

I also couldn’t resist using the metallic paints by @ondine_lab to emphasize the iconic sparkle of slipper orchid leaves. Even botanical paintings can be a bit whimsical, right? ✨

A3, watercolour on Arches hot-pressed 100% cotton paper.

#paphiopedilumiona #botanicalart #botanicalaquarelle #watercolorart #botanicalwatercolor

Meet one of the smallest 𝘗𝘩𝘢𝘭𝘢𝘦𝘯𝘰𝘱𝘴𝘪𝘴 species: 𝘗. 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘪! 💜🌱

This dainty orchid bloomed for me for the first time, and it was certainly worth the wait. For such a tiny plant, it emits a mighty fragrance with notes of vanilla and citrus. 🍋

When speaking of 𝘗𝘩𝘢𝘭𝘢𝘦𝘯𝘰𝘱𝘴𝘪𝘴, people often think of the heavily hybridized market varieties with massive flowers. However, the genus also includes several miniature species with adorable little flowers and fantastic scents.

Miniature Phalaenopsis are rather finicky compared to their more commonly cultivated hybrid cousins. They require high humidity combined with sufficient airflow and are best grown mounted. Mine seems to really enjoy its Xaxim (tree fern) slab. The porous material allows plenty of aeration around the roots while holding enough water to prevent desiccation—𝘗. 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘪 doesn’t tolerate drought, yet shouldn’t be standing in water either. A combination of daily spritzing, a spot right next to the GPU fan and the fogger outlet seems to do the trick for this species. 💦

I bought this plant last year at the orchid exhibition in Tallinn. I was slightly worried my cabinet would get too hot, especially during summer, but this little plant seems to be doing just fine. It has certainly earned its place as one of my favourite miniature orchids! 🍃

#phalaenopsisparishii #macrophotography #sonya5000 #miniatureorchids #greenhousecabinet

Meet one of the smallest 𝘗𝘩𝘢𝘭𝘢𝘦𝘯𝘰𝘱𝘴𝘪𝘴 species: 𝘗. 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘪! 💜🌱

This dainty orchid bloomed for me for the first time, and it was certainly worth the wait. For such a tiny plant, it emits a mighty fragrance with notes of vanilla and citrus. 🍋

When speaking of 𝘗𝘩𝘢𝘭𝘢𝘦𝘯𝘰𝘱𝘴𝘪𝘴, people often think of the heavily hybridized market varieties with massive flowers. However, the genus also includes several miniature species with adorable little flowers and fantastic scents.

Miniature Phalaenopsis are rather finicky compared to their more commonly cultivated hybrid cousins. They require high humidity combined with sufficient airflow and are best grown mounted. Mine seems to really enjoy its Xaxim (tree fern) slab. The porous material allows plenty of aeration around the roots while holding enough water to prevent desiccation—𝘗. 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘪 doesn’t tolerate drought, yet shouldn’t be standing in water either. A combination of daily spritzing, a spot right next to the GPU fan and the fogger outlet seems to do the trick for this species. 💦

I bought this plant last year at the orchid exhibition in Tallinn. I was slightly worried my cabinet would get too hot, especially during summer, but this little plant seems to be doing just fine. It has certainly earned its place as one of my favourite miniature orchids! 🍃

#phalaenopsisparishii #macrophotography #sonya5000 #miniatureorchids #greenhousecabinet

I defended my PhD! 🌱🥂👩🏻‍🎓

I’m still recovering from the workload of the last few months (or years?), culminating in the defence and party held last Thursday, but I really wanted to share a few snippets from that wonderful day!

I think the examination went better than I expected—despite the fact that I have never felt so nervous in my life. I was particularly touched during my post-defence party (called a Karonkka in Finland, held in honour of the opponent). To see so many important people in my life—from family to friends—in the same place, enjoying good times together, was almost overwhelming in the best possible way. I’m so grateful to my supervisors, my lab group members, my colleagues, friends, family, and my partner for being there. I’m just too lucky! 🍀

Of course, I think I had the best opponent! He was super friendly, and the examination was scientifically very stimulating. I really felt like treading on the edge of knowledge. How exciting is that?

Although the whole process has been difficult at times, I want to remind myself that it’s a blessing to be challenged by a task of your own choosing, shaped by passion and curiosity. Now, it’s time to rest for a while before I get to start a new period in my life—a postdoc!

#phdlife #scientist #phddefence #academia #plantscientist

I defended my PhD! 🌱🥂👩🏻‍🎓

I’m still recovering from the workload of the last few months (or years?), culminating in the defence and party held last Thursday, but I really wanted to share a few snippets from that wonderful day!

I think the examination went better than I expected—despite the fact that I have never felt so nervous in my life. I was particularly touched during my post-defence party (called a Karonkka in Finland, held in honour of the opponent). To see so many important people in my life—from family to friends—in the same place, enjoying good times together, was almost overwhelming in the best possible way. I’m so grateful to my supervisors, my lab group members, my colleagues, friends, family, and my partner for being there. I’m just too lucky! 🍀

Of course, I think I had the best opponent! He was super friendly, and the examination was scientifically very stimulating. I really felt like treading on the edge of knowledge. How exciting is that?

Although the whole process has been difficult at times, I want to remind myself that it’s a blessing to be challenged by a task of your own choosing, shaped by passion and curiosity. Now, it’s time to rest for a while before I get to start a new period in my life—a postdoc!

#phdlife #scientist #phddefence #academia #plantscientist

Take a moment to relax with 𝘛𝘳𝘪𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘦𝘴 𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘨𝘢𝘯𝘴 🌿🌧️

My first filmy fern, bought from WOC in Dresden. I love the way water glides across the fronds when I spray it. So soothing! 💧

Filmy ferns are a fascinating group of plants with unique adaptations to humid and wet environments. In most species, the frond blade consists of a layer only one cell thick, apart from the vascular tissue. This makes them prone to desiccation—which they would be unlikely to encounter in their natural habitats. Many species grow next to streams and waterfalls, or epiphytically in tropical rainforests. The fronds are typically small and delicate, meaning these ferns are often mistaken for mosses. 🌱

What makes these plants even weirder is the fact that they do not possess stomata on their leaf blades. As the fronds are so thin, they do not need stomatal pores to regulate gas exchange and transpiration. In order to function, stomata require internal air spaces within the leaf, which cannot exist in a frond that is only one cell thick. 🍃

𝘛. 𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘨𝘢𝘯𝘴 is one of the more resilient filmy ferns, with relatively sturdy fronds. I had to take a peek myself to confirm that there are indeed no stomata. Both the upper (adaxial) and lower (abaxial) surfaces of the leaves look almost identical. Only the abaxial side seemed to contain some small, stubby trichomes with darker coloration. 🔬

What makes 𝘛. 𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘨𝘢𝘯𝘴 particularly striking is its iridescence. Similarly to iridescent begonias, 𝘛. 𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘨𝘢𝘯𝘴 contains specialized chloroplasts called iridoplasts that produce its bluish sheen through light interference. This structural coloration is thought to be an adaptation to low-light environments. The available evidence currently seems more consistent with a photoprotective role from sun flecks than with enhanced light harvesting, although the physiological function of iridescence has not been experimentally tested in filmy ferns. For now, the purpose of the blue sheen in 𝘛. 𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘨𝘢𝘯𝘴 remains a mystery. 🔍

#trichomaneselegans #filmyferns #plantscience #botany #microscopy

Take a moment to relax with 𝘛𝘳𝘪𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘦𝘴 𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘨𝘢𝘯𝘴 🌿🌧️

My first filmy fern, bought from WOC in Dresden. I love the way water glides across the fronds when I spray it. So soothing! 💧

Filmy ferns are a fascinating group of plants with unique adaptations to humid and wet environments. In most species, the frond blade consists of a layer only one cell thick, apart from the vascular tissue. This makes them prone to desiccation—which they would be unlikely to encounter in their natural habitats. Many species grow next to streams and waterfalls, or epiphytically in tropical rainforests. The fronds are typically small and delicate, meaning these ferns are often mistaken for mosses. 🌱

What makes these plants even weirder is the fact that they do not possess stomata on their leaf blades. As the fronds are so thin, they do not need stomatal pores to regulate gas exchange and transpiration. In order to function, stomata require internal air spaces within the leaf, which cannot exist in a frond that is only one cell thick. 🍃

𝘛. 𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘨𝘢𝘯𝘴 is one of the more resilient filmy ferns, with relatively sturdy fronds. I had to take a peek myself to confirm that there are indeed no stomata. Both the upper (adaxial) and lower (abaxial) surfaces of the leaves look almost identical. Only the abaxial side seemed to contain some small, stubby trichomes with darker coloration. 🔬

What makes 𝘛. 𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘨𝘢𝘯𝘴 particularly striking is its iridescence. Similarly to iridescent begonias, 𝘛. 𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘨𝘢𝘯𝘴 contains specialized chloroplasts called iridoplasts that produce its bluish sheen through light interference. This structural coloration is thought to be an adaptation to low-light environments. The available evidence currently seems more consistent with a photoprotective role from sun flecks than with enhanced light harvesting, although the physiological function of iridescence has not been experimentally tested in filmy ferns. For now, the purpose of the blue sheen in 𝘛. 𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘨𝘢𝘯𝘴 remains a mystery. 🔍

#trichomaneselegans #filmyferns #plantscience #botany #microscopy

Spring flora of the Åland Islands 🌿🌸🌷

Here are some snippets from a trip we made to Åland a little over a week ago. My camera roll was mostly filled with pictures of orchids, but we also saw some wonderful ferns, carnivorous plants, and other fascinating species.

1–4. 𝘖𝘳𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘮𝘢𝘴𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘢, the early-purple orchid 5. Field filled with 𝘖. 𝘮𝘢𝘴𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘢, 𝘋𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘺𝘭𝘰𝘳𝘩𝘪𝘻𝘢 𝘴𝘢𝘮𝘣𝘶𝘤𝘪𝘯𝘢, and 𝘗𝘳𝘪𝘮𝘶𝘭𝘢 𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘴 in Nåtö 6–8. 𝘋. 𝘴𝘢𝘮𝘣𝘶𝘤𝘪𝘯𝘢, the elder-flowered orchid 9–10. 𝘊𝘦𝘱𝘩𝘢𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘢 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘪𝘧𝘰𝘭𝘪𝘢, the narrow-leaved helleborine 11–12. 𝘕𝘦𝘰𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘢 𝘰𝘷𝘢𝘵𝘢, the common twayblade 13. 𝘉𝘰𝘵𝘳𝘺𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘶𝘮 𝘴𝘪𝘮𝘱𝘭𝘦𝘹, little grapefern 14. 𝘈𝘴𝘱𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘪𝘶𝘮 𝘳𝘶𝘵𝘢-𝘮𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘢, wall-rue 15. 𝘞𝘰𝘰𝘥𝘴𝘪𝘢 𝘪𝘭𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘴, oblong woodsia 16. 𝘋𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘢 𝘳𝘰𝘵𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘧𝘰𝘭𝘪𝘢, round-leaved sundew 17. 𝘗𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘶𝘪𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘢 𝘷𝘶𝘭𝘨𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘴, the common butterwort, getting ready to bloom 18. 𝘍𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘢 𝘮𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘨𝘳𝘪𝘴, snake’s-head fritillary 19. 𝘗𝘳𝘪𝘮𝘶𝘭𝘢 𝘧𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘰𝘴𝘢, the bird’s-eye primrose 20. 𝘝𝘪𝘤𝘪𝘢 𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘺𝘳𝘰𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘴, spring vetch

#orchidsofinstagram #finnishflora #macroplants #botany #orchidsinsitu

Spring flora of the Åland Islands 🌿🌸🌷

Here are some snippets from a trip we made to Åland a little over a week ago. My camera roll was mostly filled with pictures of orchids, but we also saw some wonderful ferns, carnivorous plants, and other fascinating species.

1–4. 𝘖𝘳𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘮𝘢𝘴𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘢, the early-purple orchid 5. Field filled with 𝘖. 𝘮𝘢𝘴𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘢, 𝘋𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘺𝘭𝘰𝘳𝘩𝘪𝘻𝘢 𝘴𝘢𝘮𝘣𝘶𝘤𝘪𝘯𝘢, and 𝘗𝘳𝘪𝘮𝘶𝘭𝘢 𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘴 in Nåtö 6–8. 𝘋. 𝘴𝘢𝘮𝘣𝘶𝘤𝘪𝘯𝘢, the elder-flowered orchid 9–10. 𝘊𝘦𝘱𝘩𝘢𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘢 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘪𝘧𝘰𝘭𝘪𝘢, the narrow-leaved helleborine 11–12. 𝘕𝘦𝘰𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘢 𝘰𝘷𝘢𝘵𝘢, the common twayblade 13. 𝘉𝘰𝘵𝘳𝘺𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘶𝘮 𝘴𝘪𝘮𝘱𝘭𝘦𝘹, little grapefern 14. 𝘈𝘴𝘱𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘪𝘶𝘮 𝘳𝘶𝘵𝘢-𝘮𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘢, wall-rue 15. 𝘞𝘰𝘰𝘥𝘴𝘪𝘢 𝘪𝘭𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘴, oblong woodsia 16. 𝘋𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘢 𝘳𝘰𝘵𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘧𝘰𝘭𝘪𝘢, round-leaved sundew 17. 𝘗𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘶𝘪𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘢 𝘷𝘶𝘭𝘨𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘴, the common butterwort, getting ready to bloom 18. 𝘍𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘢 𝘮𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘨𝘳𝘪𝘴, snake’s-head fritillary 19. 𝘗𝘳𝘪𝘮𝘶𝘭𝘢 𝘧𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘰𝘴𝘢, the bird’s-eye primrose 20. 𝘝𝘪𝘤𝘪𝘢 𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘺𝘳𝘰𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘴, spring vetch

#orchidsofinstagram #finnishflora #macroplants #botany #orchidsinsitu

𝘗𝘢𝘱𝘩𝘪𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘭𝘶𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘪𝘢𝘯𝘶𝘮 ☁️⊹. ݁˖

One of the first plants I bought from Dresden was this cute little plant, 𝘗. 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘪𝘢𝘯𝘶𝘮. I’m certain it is now the record-holder for the smallest flower in my slipper collection. Isn’t it just adorable? Look how tiny the flowers look in comparison to my hand!

Furthermore, whereas most specimens I’ve come across have more white labellums, this one has pink spots all over, adding to its cuteness. Thanks, @popow_orchids_aroids for this awesome plant. 💜

As a species, 𝘗. 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘪𝘢𝘯𝘶𝘮 is a true miniature orchid originating from the lowland forests of southern Thailand. It’s a lithophyte, growing on limestone cliffs shaded by the canopy from the hot tropical sun. Since the species hails from hot and humid forests, it’s the perfect addition to the conditions of my slipper cabinet. According to all the information I’ve read, it seems to be a relatively easy species to grow. I wonder why I hadn’t gotten hold of it before. Have you had success with 𝘗. 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘪𝘢𝘯𝘶𝘮? Any tips would be welcome!

This is my first post in a long time; I’ve been very busy with my dissertation over the past month. I’m happy to say that I submitted it for preliminary examination a couple of weeks ago. Hopefully, it all goes well. I’ve taken some time to recover—meaning taking care of my plants and painting. And I have so many photos of my new plants just waiting to be shared! 📸👀

#paphiopedilum #paphiopedilumthaianum #orchidcollection #botanicalphotography #slipperorchids

𝘗𝘢𝘱𝘩𝘪𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘭𝘶𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘪𝘢𝘯𝘶𝘮 ☁️⊹. ݁˖

One of the first plants I bought from Dresden was this cute little plant, 𝘗. 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘪𝘢𝘯𝘶𝘮. I’m certain it is now the record-holder for the smallest flower in my slipper collection. Isn’t it just adorable? Look how tiny the flowers look in comparison to my hand!

Furthermore, whereas most specimens I’ve come across have more white labellums, this one has pink spots all over, adding to its cuteness. Thanks, @popow_orchids_aroids for this awesome plant. 💜

As a species, 𝘗. 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘪𝘢𝘯𝘶𝘮 is a true miniature orchid originating from the lowland forests of southern Thailand. It’s a lithophyte, growing on limestone cliffs shaded by the canopy from the hot tropical sun. Since the species hails from hot and humid forests, it’s the perfect addition to the conditions of my slipper cabinet. According to all the information I’ve read, it seems to be a relatively easy species to grow. I wonder why I hadn’t gotten hold of it before. Have you had success with 𝘗. 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘪𝘢𝘯𝘶𝘮? Any tips would be welcome!

This is my first post in a long time; I’ve been very busy with my dissertation over the past month. I’m happy to say that I submitted it for preliminary examination a couple of weeks ago. Hopefully, it all goes well. I’ve taken some time to recover—meaning taking care of my plants and painting. And I have so many photos of my new plants just waiting to be shared! 📸👀

#paphiopedilum #paphiopedilumthaianum #orchidcollection #botanicalphotography #slipperorchids

Highlights from the World Orchid Conference in Dresden! 🌱✨

It was an intense but incredibly fulfilling 4 days, being bombarded by everything orchid—sales, exhibitions, art, lectures, growers, science… One might imagine this would lead to an overdose, but I wish all of it had lasted longer!

It was my first orchid conference and large-scale expo ever, and I was obviously extremely hyped. My favourite part (aside from plant shopping, naturally) was the inspiring orchid art exhibition, as well as the fantastic plant displays. I also loved the interesting lectures, although the field of science wasn’t exactly my own. But it’s healthy to expose oneself to different things, right? It was refreshing to dive deep into orchid ecology and horticulture and forget about my own research for a while.

I was lucky to share the journey with the joyful company of the Finnish Orchid Society (@suomen_orkideayhdistys_ry ). Also, I’m really happy I got to meet some friends from IG face to face! Thanks for pulling my sleeve and saying hi—it really made my day! 🥹 Thanks for the lovely sellers, lecturers, and of course, the organizers of @woc_2026 !

I can’t wait to show you some of the plants I bought there. They’re mostly orchids, but I also found some amazing ferns, aroids, and carnivorous plants too. Stay tuned! 👀

#worldorchidconference #worldorchidconference2026 #orchidshow #orchidnerds #orchidlovers

Highlights from the World Orchid Conference in Dresden! 🌱✨

It was an intense but incredibly fulfilling 4 days, being bombarded by everything orchid—sales, exhibitions, art, lectures, growers, science… One might imagine this would lead to an overdose, but I wish all of it had lasted longer!

It was my first orchid conference and large-scale expo ever, and I was obviously extremely hyped. My favourite part (aside from plant shopping, naturally) was the inspiring orchid art exhibition, as well as the fantastic plant displays. I also loved the interesting lectures, although the field of science wasn’t exactly my own. But it’s healthy to expose oneself to different things, right? It was refreshing to dive deep into orchid ecology and horticulture and forget about my own research for a while.

I was lucky to share the journey with the joyful company of the Finnish Orchid Society (@suomen_orkideayhdistys_ry ). Also, I’m really happy I got to meet some friends from IG face to face! Thanks for pulling my sleeve and saying hi—it really made my day! 🥹 Thanks for the lovely sellers, lecturers, and of course, the organizers of @woc_2026 !

I can’t wait to show you some of the plants I bought there. They’re mostly orchids, but I also found some amazing ferns, aroids, and carnivorous plants too. Stay tuned! 👀

#worldorchidconference #worldorchidconference2026 #orchidshow #orchidnerds #orchidlovers

𝑃𝑎𝑝ℎ𝑖𝑜𝑝𝑒𝑑𝑖𝑙𝑢𝑚 𝑑𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑖 ’Vinicolor’ ⋆⁺ 💜

I bought this plant from the orchid sale in Tallinn botanical gardens two weeks ago. 𝑃. 𝑑𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑖 is one of my favourite Paphs: the dramatic tesselated leaf patterns and the scent just make it so perfect. I had some bad luck with my old vinicolor as it died back due to some rotting, although I was able to save one small rosette. Luckily, it’s rooting well now, but it’ll be years until the tiny plant is going to bloom again. So, I just couldn’t resist this one.

Weirdly enough, this individual doesn’t have that much of a scent, while my older plant had a really strong and wonderful rosy fragrance. Also the petals appear smaller and curl backwards in this one, which looks charming!

I’m so so excited about the World Orchid Conference in Dresden next week I can barely focus on anything else at the moment. Please let me know if you are going as well—let’s meet up! 🌱
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#paphiopedilum #orchidcollection #plantnerds #orchidsofinstagram #kasvikokoelma

𝑃𝑎𝑝ℎ𝑖𝑜𝑝𝑒𝑑𝑖𝑙𝑢𝑚 𝑑𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑖 ’Vinicolor’ ⋆⁺ 💜

I bought this plant from the orchid sale in Tallinn botanical gardens two weeks ago. 𝑃. 𝑑𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑖 is one of my favourite Paphs: the dramatic tesselated leaf patterns and the scent just make it so perfect. I had some bad luck with my old vinicolor as it died back due to some rotting, although I was able to save one small rosette. Luckily, it’s rooting well now, but it’ll be years until the tiny plant is going to bloom again. So, I just couldn’t resist this one.

Weirdly enough, this individual doesn’t have that much of a scent, while my older plant had a really strong and wonderful rosy fragrance. Also the petals appear smaller and curl backwards in this one, which looks charming!

I’m so so excited about the World Orchid Conference in Dresden next week I can barely focus on anything else at the moment. Please let me know if you are going as well—let’s meet up! 🌱
⊹
#paphiopedilum #orchidcollection #plantnerds #orchidsofinstagram #kasvikokoelma

Shade-dwellers 🌌🌱

Showcasing some lovely iridescent begonias: 𝘉𝘦𝘨𝘰𝘯𝘪𝘢 ‘Taconite’, 𝘉. ‘Nightfall’ and 𝘉. ‘EB Photogenicus’ (𝘉. 𝘱𝘢𝘷𝘰𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘢 × sp. Sumatra Utara).

Propagated from leaf cuttings, they take on a glorious blue iridescence when moved to the dim lower layers of my cabinet. I like to believe this spot emulates their natural habitat fairly well: shaded by plants above, occasionally touched by specks of brighter light. ‘Taconite’ particularly shines here and appears blue even to the naked eye. The first picture was taken without a flash, the second with. 📸

I often hype about the mechanisms and evolutionary function of plant iridescence, but an equally fascinating mystery is the red undersides of many leaves. All of these begonias show deep red colouration on the abaxial (lower) leaf surface.

But why would a plant reflect red light, one of the main wavelengths used in photosynthesis? Scientists have wondered the same thing and proposed various hypotheses from deterring herbivores to starving competitors below. One earlier idea suggested red pigments could reflect light back into the leaf to enhance photosynthesis, but this has largely been rejected.

The strongest evidence points toward a role in photoprotection. The red coloration is caused by anthocyanins that absorb a wide range of wavelengths, particularly UV and green-yellow light (while reflecting the red we see). In shade-adapted understory plants, photosynthesis saturates at relatively low light, making them especially vulnerable to sudden bursts of intense sunlight.

At first, I was puzzled by this: why put “sunscreen” on the underside of leaves? Under typical low-light forest conditions, most light does not penetrate deeply enough to reach abaxial anthocyanins, allowing efficient light capture in the mesophyll. However, during intense sunflecks, excess light could scatter internally and potentially overwhelming chloroplasts. The anthocyanin layer can absorb this excess before it scatters back into the tissue causing photodamage. Anthocyanins probably serve other purposes too, such as acting as antioxidants. 🌿

#begonia #iridescentplants #plantnerds #botany #plantscience

Shade-dwellers 🌌🌱

Showcasing some lovely iridescent begonias: 𝘉𝘦𝘨𝘰𝘯𝘪𝘢 ‘Taconite’, 𝘉. ‘Nightfall’ and 𝘉. ‘EB Photogenicus’ (𝘉. 𝘱𝘢𝘷𝘰𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘢 × sp. Sumatra Utara).

Propagated from leaf cuttings, they take on a glorious blue iridescence when moved to the dim lower layers of my cabinet. I like to believe this spot emulates their natural habitat fairly well: shaded by plants above, occasionally touched by specks of brighter light. ‘Taconite’ particularly shines here and appears blue even to the naked eye. The first picture was taken without a flash, the second with. 📸

I often hype about the mechanisms and evolutionary function of plant iridescence, but an equally fascinating mystery is the red undersides of many leaves. All of these begonias show deep red colouration on the abaxial (lower) leaf surface.

But why would a plant reflect red light, one of the main wavelengths used in photosynthesis? Scientists have wondered the same thing and proposed various hypotheses from deterring herbivores to starving competitors below. One earlier idea suggested red pigments could reflect light back into the leaf to enhance photosynthesis, but this has largely been rejected.

The strongest evidence points toward a role in photoprotection. The red coloration is caused by anthocyanins that absorb a wide range of wavelengths, particularly UV and green-yellow light (while reflecting the red we see). In shade-adapted understory plants, photosynthesis saturates at relatively low light, making them especially vulnerable to sudden bursts of intense sunlight.

At first, I was puzzled by this: why put “sunscreen” on the underside of leaves? Under typical low-light forest conditions, most light does not penetrate deeply enough to reach abaxial anthocyanins, allowing efficient light capture in the mesophyll. However, during intense sunflecks, excess light could scatter internally and potentially overwhelming chloroplasts. The anthocyanin layer can absorb this excess before it scatters back into the tissue causing photodamage. Anthocyanins probably serve other purposes too, such as acting as antioxidants. 🌿

#begonia #iridescentplants #plantnerds #botany #plantscience

𝘗𝘢𝘱𝘩𝘪𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘭𝘶𝘮 ’White Lady’ is undoubtedly the most vigorously blooming plant that I own. 🤍👑 The flowers last insanely long, and since it pushes out at least 2 flowers per stalk, it’s pretty much in bloom almost all of the time. The beast is so huge and had 9 flowers simultaneously open during the time I took these pictures that honestly, it’s getting difficult to capture! Thus, a rare human for scale. Pardon the awkward toilet selfie. 🫣

I’ve been very quiet on IG lately, so sorry for all the ignored DMs and comments! Life has been busy with grant applications and teaching. But soon the deadlines will be conquered and hopefully life gets a bit more normal!
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#paphiopedilum #orchidcollection #orchidnerds #kasviharrastus #orchidsofinstagram

𝘗𝘢𝘱𝘩𝘪𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘭𝘶𝘮 ’White Lady’ is undoubtedly the most vigorously blooming plant that I own. 🤍👑 The flowers last insanely long, and since it pushes out at least 2 flowers per stalk, it’s pretty much in bloom almost all of the time. The beast is so huge and had 9 flowers simultaneously open during the time I took these pictures that honestly, it’s getting difficult to capture! Thus, a rare human for scale. Pardon the awkward toilet selfie. 🫣

I’ve been very quiet on IG lately, so sorry for all the ignored DMs and comments! Life has been busy with grant applications and teaching. But soon the deadlines will be conquered and hopefully life gets a bit more normal!
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#paphiopedilum #orchidcollection #orchidnerds #kasviharrastus #orchidsofinstagram

Honestly my favourite spot 🖤🌿🌱

I’ve been working more from home lately, writing grant applications and my thesis. I really love my home office, although I sometimes get a bit distracted by all the plant maintenance I could be doing (especially since the aroid cabinet is getting crowded and could use a bit of upgrading). Somehow, I’ve still been surprisingly productive. In the evenings, I paint in the same spot—at this point, I’m pretty much rooted here. 🫣
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#ikeagreenhousecabinet #darkplantaesthetic #botany #plantnerds #anthuriums

Honestly my favourite spot 🖤🌿🌱

I’ve been working more from home lately, writing grant applications and my thesis. I really love my home office, although I sometimes get a bit distracted by all the plant maintenance I could be doing (especially since the aroid cabinet is getting crowded and could use a bit of upgrading). Somehow, I’ve still been surprisingly productive. In the evenings, I paint in the same spot—at this point, I’m pretty much rooted here. 🫣
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#ikeagreenhousecabinet #darkplantaesthetic #botany #plantnerds #anthuriums

𝘋𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘢 𝘤𝘢𝘱𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘴 ‘Bainskloof’ snacking on some prey 🌱˚⋆⁺ 𓆤

Last night, I managed to capture a gnat landing on this hungry sundew, so I just had to start recording a timelapse. Unfortunately, the phone needed some readjusting after a while, which is why there are two clips. It’s not the best timelapse in the world, but it’s not often that the sundews get to feed on live prey. There aren’t many gnats around, as my butterworts take care of them very efficiently.

This cool little variety of the Cape Sundew is from @elfikabotanics . Its leaves are broader than those of the more commonly seen form, giving it a charmingly unique look among other sundews.
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#droseracapensis #carnivorousplants #carnivorousplantnerds #weirdplants #macroplants

𝘋𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘢 𝘤𝘢𝘱𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘴 ‘Bainskloof’ snacking on some prey 🌱˚⋆⁺ 𓆤

Last night, I managed to capture a gnat landing on this hungry sundew, so I just had to start recording a timelapse. Unfortunately, the phone needed some readjusting after a while, which is why there are two clips. It’s not the best timelapse in the world, but it’s not often that the sundews get to feed on live prey. There aren’t many gnats around, as my butterworts take care of them very efficiently.

This cool little variety of the Cape Sundew is from @elfikabotanics . Its leaves are broader than those of the more commonly seen form, giving it a charmingly unique look among other sundews.
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#droseracapensis #carnivorousplants #carnivorousplantnerds #weirdplants #macroplants

Sciency photo dump! 🌱🧪🔬

1. Slipper orchid stomata (𝘗𝘢𝘱𝘩𝘪𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘭𝘶𝘮 𝘫𝘰𝘴𝘪𝘢𝘯𝘢𝘦)
2. The most aesthetic root plates: supplemented with a pH indicator dye called bromocresol purple. Used for studying rhizosphere acidification.
3. Notes and papers.
4. Epidermal imprint from Arabidopsis
5. Arabidopsis mutants ready for experimenting
6. Live imaging: calcium dynamics in the root visualized by confocal microscopy
7. Making a green smoothie (guard cell enrichment in progress)
8. On teaching duty
9. Just Arabidopsis under a microscope
10. Sampling
11. My poster at Finnish Plant Science Days (it won the 2nd poster prize 🥈)
12. RUBY reporter expressed in root vasculature
13. RUBY seedlings
14. Field experiment at Hyytiälä forest station
15. Grafting birch for the first time

Although my holiday just started, I’m excited to see what next year will bring research-wise. This year was tough (and at certain points felt a bit sluggish) but still very rewarding, and I’m now more eager about science than ever. It’s crazy to think that I’m able to defend next year—and only time will tell what happens after. Certainly, I hope I will continue doing plant research in one way or another. 👩🏻‍🔬🌿

#phdlife #phdjourney #plantphysiology #plantscientist #phdstudent

Sciency photo dump! 🌱🧪🔬

1. Slipper orchid stomata (𝘗𝘢𝘱𝘩𝘪𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘭𝘶𝘮 𝘫𝘰𝘴𝘪𝘢𝘯𝘢𝘦)
2. The most aesthetic root plates: supplemented with a pH indicator dye called bromocresol purple. Used for studying rhizosphere acidification.
3. Notes and papers.
4. Epidermal imprint from Arabidopsis
5. Arabidopsis mutants ready for experimenting
6. Live imaging: calcium dynamics in the root visualized by confocal microscopy
7. Making a green smoothie (guard cell enrichment in progress)
8. On teaching duty
9. Just Arabidopsis under a microscope
10. Sampling
11. My poster at Finnish Plant Science Days (it won the 2nd poster prize 🥈)
12. RUBY reporter expressed in root vasculature
13. RUBY seedlings
14. Field experiment at Hyytiälä forest station
15. Grafting birch for the first time

Although my holiday just started, I’m excited to see what next year will bring research-wise. This year was tough (and at certain points felt a bit sluggish) but still very rewarding, and I’m now more eager about science than ever. It’s crazy to think that I’m able to defend next year—and only time will tell what happens after. Certainly, I hope I will continue doing plant research in one way or another. 👩🏻‍🔬🌿

#phdlife #phdjourney #plantphysiology #plantscientist #phdstudent

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