We are passionate about orchids and love to share our knowledge and expertise with others.
The Glasshouse Country Orchid Society Inc (GCOS) was formed in 1976 to promote the cultivation and conservation of exotic and native orchids. There are approximately 25,000 orchid species and about 1,000 genera. Come along and learn to identify the different species and learn about their cultural requirements. Since the 1800s, orchid enthusiasts have bred thousands of different hybrids and continue to do so today.
Our members grow a wide variety of orchids including Australian native orchids, species from other parts of the world and many, many hybrids. We regularly get the opportunity to show our flowering orchids – at our monthly meeting “Show and Tell” and at the many orchid shows across the Sunshine Coast throughout the year.
Orchids in Numbers
25,000 (approx)
Different Orchid Species
1,000 (approx)
Different Genera
100,000 plus
Unique Hybrids
Become a GCOS Member
Membership is $20.00 per family per year. If you would like to join us, please contact the secretary for more information.
Monthly Meetings
Glasshouse Country Orchid Society Inc (GCOS) meets monthly on the second Wednesday of the month. Meetings are held in the Glasshouse Community Hall, 8 Coonowrin Road, Glasshouse Mountains starting at 7.30pm. A number of cultural meetings are held during the year at various members homes and a tour of their orchid house is usually included.
The highlight of the meetings is the ‘benching’ of member’s flowering orchids. Orchid judges and experienced growers discuss the plants on display – a great way to expand your knowledge and learn what makes a prize-winning orchid.
The raffle prizes during the night are always orchid plants – an excellent opportunity to build your orchid collection.
And afterwards, there’s the supper and socialising….