The 38th National Orchid Exhibition organized by the Costa Rican Orchidology Association is set to take place March 13 to 15 at La Aduana, the former Customs building in eastern San José's Barrio La California.

Costa Rica is home to more than 1,300 orchid species, including the guaria morada, the country's national flower.

More than 1,500 plants will be judged in 60 categories by a team of 11 judges from the American Orchid Society over the three-day exhibition. First, second and third place ribbons will be awarded in each category. The event will also feature videos, talks and orchid sales.

The exhibition, the largest of its kind in Central America and the Caribbean, attracts some 8,000 national and international visitors annually. It will be open 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday and until 6 p.m. Sunday. General admission will cost ¢2,000 ($3.60).

For more information, visit the orchidology association's Web site at www.ticorquideas.com, or call 2240-4269.