Philippine Native Orchid Species aims to introduce the general Filipino public, and other interested parties, to the wonders of Philippine native orchid species.
Jim Cootes has been an avid orchid grower, for almost 40 years. Since he was a young boy, he has had a fascination with Mother Nature, and her magnificent handiwork. At this time, he still maintains an interest in everything natural and enjoys any time immensely. When he is out in the fresh air, and if he is in a forest, seeing orchids and other plants growing naturally, then all the better. His interest in Philippine orchid species started in the mid 1980's after a trip to the mountains of central Luzon. The research work into Philippine orchids began, after these plants began flowering, and some could not be identified. In the 1990's, Mr. Cootes started writing his first book, The Orchids of the Philippines, which was duly published in 2001. Mr. Cootes’ research into Philippine orchid species continues to this day, and this book, Philippine Native Orchid Species, is the result of his continued interest in these wonderful orchid gems. During the past 10 years, since his first book was published, Jim has named numerous new orchid species of Philippine origins, both by himself and in cooperation with other orchid workers. He is certain that there are still many more new orchid species from the Philippines waiting to be described.