Richard Cole, plant biology greenhouse director, discusses the origins and characteristics of the coffee plant Tuesday in the plant biology greenhouse. Cole has worked in the greenhouse for 21 years, overseeing everyday operations such as continuing education on tropical plants, maintaining various plants and giving tours to the public. The greenhouse has a diverse collection of plants from all over the world and is open to public viewing.

The phalaenopsis, also known as the moth orchid, is a plant native in Southeast Asia and Northern Australia. Cole said the plant biology greenhouse is home to 700 different species of plants, most of which are foreign to the state of Illinois.