Bhubaneswar, Jan. 1: The wide range of exquisite flowers and plants that Rourkela-based plant lover Arati Swain has grown in her garden can charm any visitor. The gardener’s passion has guided her to collect an array of rare species of plants.

From lavender coloured Cattleyas to stunning purple Vandas, Arati has a unique collection of orchids that she has collected from various cities in the country.

“Orchids are very dear to me. I simply love the wide range of flowers that look beautiful when hung on the walls of the house during events or made into a bouquet for gifting. I have collected around six different varieties of orchids that include Phalaenopsis and Dendrobium among others,” said Arati.

A homemaker, Arati has been collecting the unique plants and flowers for the last 10 years. “Whenever I used to visit different cities with my husband, I used to be delighted to see the attractive flowers and exquisite plant varieties available at flower markets. I started collecting some from Bangalore, Cochin and so on. Within a couple of years, I managed to collect more than 15 kinds of plants. All my plants are like my kids,” said Arati, who presently has about 40 varieties of plants.

“At first, I was passionate about roses. Soon, I gathered about 30 different colours and varieties of roses. Then there are Chrysanthemums of varying sizes and shapes that add to the beauty of my garden. I also have rare X-mas cacti and Anthuriums,” she said.

Most of the plants Arati grows need indirect sunlight and hence she keeps them under a green coloured net. Taking the guidance of books on gardening and dedicating two hours religiously for her plants every day, Arati has emerged the champion of the annual Rourkela Flower Show for seven times in a row.

“It has been the support of my family that has helped me collect the plants and take care of them. Whenever on a visit to any other state, my husband makes sure to bring me a special plant. The insectivorous pitcher plant that he got is really special. My daughter also helps me in gardening,” said Arati who wishes to create a bigger and lavish garden, mainly full of orchids.

Her neighbours also encourage her passion. “The rich variety of colourful flowers and unique plants Arati has grown add to the beauty of the entire neigbourhood. We are glad she has such a lovely hobby,” said a neighbour.