Zeuxine strateumatica (Schlechter soldier's orchid)

Botanical name: Zeuxine strateumatica

Common names: Schlechter soldier's orchid, Centipede Grass Orchid

Family: Orchidaceae

Z. strateumatica, has become naturalized in southern Florida after being introduced into the area as an adventive with Centipede Grass from China (this is where the Florida nickname "Centipede Grass Orchid" came from for this species.) Looks too nice to be just a weed! It emerges in winter, blooming in late December and January; within a few weeks, the plants vanish. The following year, they may return, and from the same root a new plant will grow next to the previous one.