Humans and orchids have a long and storied history. Confucius first wrote about them in 500 B.C.E. Over the millennia, orchids have found their beautiful place in society. Learn about highlights, including the Vanilla orchid, Darwin’s orchid, ghost orchid (below), and the first ladies Cattleya orchids. This relaxing, interesting Smithsonian online talk on September 30 focuses on the sometimes unexpected presence of orchids throughout history. The instructor is Barbara Schmidt. $25 for Smithsonian Associates members, $30 general admission. Register at https://smithsonianassociates.org/ticketing/programs/famous-orchids-in-history