Brassavola acaulis

Brassavola acaulis

Common Name: The Stemless Brassavola

Native to: Panama, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Mexico. Brassavola acaulis is native to moist forested foothills where it grows on tree branches. Its center of distribution is located in Costa Rica.

Plant Description: The fleshy terete leaves of Brassavola acaulis are pendent (hang from the rhizome) and up to 0.75 inches (2 cm) wide. The leaves grow between 16 and 32 inches (40-80 cm) long. The rhizome creeps along the substrate. Like Cattleya walkeriana, this species produces flower stems from the rhizome rather than from the top of the pseudobulb. It alternates producing new leaf growths with flower stems. Foliage is dark green in color.

Flower Size: 2 3/4 inches to 3 1/4 inches (7-8 cm)

Flower Description: One flower is produced on an inflorescence that grows from the rhizome. The petals and sepals of Brassavola acaulis are greenish-white and the lip is white in color. Flowers are waxy. Fragrant at night.

Bloom Season: May-July

Temperature: Warm

Additional Information: Brassavola acaulis needs to be grown mounted on cork or a tree branch since the foliage is pendent. Provide bright light and Cattleya conditions with high humidity and good air circulation. Let the plant dry out between watering and reduce water some during the winter when temperatures are cooler.

Synonyms: Bletia acaulis; Bletia lineata; Brassavola lineata; Brassavola mathieuana