“Cattleya Species of Venezuela and South America” Presented by Alex Bello
Alex Bello
While mid-summer in South Florida keeps us busy managing the heat and humidity in our grow houses, it is also the perfect time to dive deep into the spectacular orchid habitats of our neighbors to the south.
This month, the South Florida Orchid Society is thrilled to welcome local horticultural powerhouse Alex Bello for a stunning visual and educational journey: “Cattleya Species of Venezuela and South America.” From the dramatic cloud forests to the rich tropical lowlands, Alex will explore the magnificent Cattleya species that define South American orchid flora, offering invaluable insights into their history, variety, and unique habits.
About Our Guest Speaker
Alex Bello is an avid collector, grower, and true expert across a massive spectrum of tropical flora, ranging from bromeliads, orchids, and ferns to aroids and beyond. He has been cultivating and collecting tropical plants for over 25 years. While he loves all things green, his botanical journey took off when he was gifted a single variegated Neoregelia—sparking a lifelong, beautifully “out-of-control” passion for bromeliads and tropical ecosystems.
Alex’s leadership in the plant community is extensive. He has held high-level positions across several major plant societies, serving as the Southern Regions Director for the Bromeliad Society International, President and Show & Sale Chairman of the Bromeliad Society of South Florida, and Former President of the International Aroid Society.
When he isn’t managing a collection or leading plant societies, Alex is a dedicated 24-year veteran of the Miami-Dade County Public Schools, serving as a high school administrative assistant overseeing school operations, budget, and personnel. He is also a passionate outdoorsman with a profound love for the Florida Everglades and local ecology, enjoying fishing, swamp walks, and just about any outdoor adventure.
Alex’s deep operational background in the plant world means he knows exactly what growers love. Come out early to browse the plant sales tables, catch up with fellow orchid enthusiasts, and pick up some incredible new additions for your summer collection!
We look forward to seeing you all at 7 PM on Wednesday, July 15th at Pinecrest Gardens
Martin A. Rivas, Ph.D.
Program Director
South Florida Orchid Society
programs@sforchid.com
https://www.sforchid.com