Non-natural blue orchid flower raises suspicions

CLEVELAND - It is often described as one of nature's most beautiful creations, but questions are blooming about a new species of orchid and whether it's a true natural wonder or just a costly man-made invention.

The blue mystique -- it's dubbed -- is the world's first phalaenopsis blue orchid. We found blue on display at Home Depot and Lowe's, selling for double the price of its more commonly-colored counterparts.

The blue mystique has been cultivating questions at the American Orchid Society for months. Center Director Ron Mchatton said the orchid may be pricey, but consumers should also know they're plain.

"No they're not real blue orchids," said Mchatton. "They're white orchids that have been dyed."

So who's behind the blue mystique? A company called Silver Vase, which is based in Florida.

On its website, the company touts its blue color as: "the result of a patented process that infuses white orchids with a special medium." However, it refused to say anything more.

Silver vase is now responding to these consumer concerns. New labels will let consumers know they're not really blue. The labels say, in part, with a little bit of magic we turn a white orchid blue. And just in case you're wondering, new blooms from the blue mystique will be white.