A Blooming Tribute: The White Orchid Honouring Pope Francis

TheIndonesia.co - In the serene ambiance of Jakarta Cathedral, Indonesia, a poignant tribute to Pope Francis was unveiled during the requiem mass held in his honour at April 24th, 2025. Adorning the altar were elegant white orchids, their delicate petals symbolising purity and reverence. These orchids were not merely floral arrangements; they were a testament to the deep respect and admiration the Catholic community holds for the late pontiff.

Speaking about the late pontiff and white orchids, one of Indonesia's neighbours within ASEAN countries, Singapore had a special orchid variant.

In 2024, during Pope Francis's visit to Singapore, a special hybrid of the Papilionanthe Miss Joaquim was introduced in his honour. This new variant, named Dendrobium His Holiness Pope Francis, was a collaborative effort by Singapore's esteemed orchid breeders. The introduction of this hybrid was not just a botanical achievement but also a symbol of the enduring bond between the Vatican and Singapore.

The tradition of orchid breeding in Singapore dates back to the late 19th century, with pioneers like Agnes Joaquim leading the way. Her legacy continues to inspire horticulturists and botanists in the region. The Papilionanthe Miss Joaquim, Singapore's national flower stands as a testament to Singapore's rich heritage in orchid cultivation and its commitment to preserving and enhancing this natural beauty.

The renowned Papilionanthe Miss Joaquim, a hybrid orchid, first bred by Agnes Joaquim in 1893, is a cross between Vanda hookeriana and Vanda teres. Its selection as Singapore's national flower in 1981 was a nod to its resilience and year-round blooming quality, characteristics that reflect the nation's spirit.

For visitors to Singapore and Indonesia, encountering these white orchids serves as a gentle reminder of Pope Francis's enduring legacy. Whether in the lush gardens of Singapore or the sacred halls of Jakarta Cathedral, these blooms offer a moment of reflection and connection to a pontiff who championed peace, unity, and compassion.

Orchid Sightings for Travellers in Indonesia and Singapore

For those journeying through Southeast Asia, orchids are not just flowers; they are cultural symbols, botanical marvels, and living tributes to global figures like Pope Francis.

Indonesia: A Tapestry of Orchid Diversity

Indonesia, with its vast archipelago, boasts an impressive array of native orchids. In Bali, the Dendrobium species thrives in the cooler highlands, often found in the terraced rice fields and temples. Kalimantan, the Indonesian part of Borneo, is home to the Grammatophyllum speciosum, known as the tiger orchid. This species is notable for its massive size, with flower spikes reaching up to 2 meters in length, making it a spectacular sight in the wild.

In December 2024, a new orchid species, Trichoglottis najibii, was showcased at the Floriculture Indonesia International (FLOII) Expo 2024. Discovered in the tropical rainforest of East Kalimantan, this species features unique lateral lobes and curved cylindrical spurs, highlighting the rich biodiversity of the region .

Singapore: Orchids at Every Turn

Singapore's commitment to orchid cultivation is evident from the moment one arrives. Changi Airport, renowned for its lush indoor gardens, features numerous orchid displays, setting the tone for the city's reputation as a garden in a garden. The National Orchid Garden within the Singapore Botanic Gardens houses over 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids, including the Dendrobium His Holiness Pope Francis, introduced during the pontiff's 2024 visit .

For travelers interested in orchids, both Indonesia and Singapore offer rich experiences. From the wilds of Kalimantan to the curated gardens of Singapore, these regions provide opportunities to witness the beauty and diversity of orchids, serving as living tributes to figures like Pope Francis.