Cattleya Orchid Source: 2010

Epidendrum and Leptotes

Epidendrum

The genus Epidendrum is large and varied. Most plants have reed-like, compressed pseudobulbs with leaves distributed along the length of the pseudobulb at nodes. However, some have small, round pseudobulbs with one or more leaves. Generally the flowers are small. See individual species descriptions for growing information.

Epidendrum Species Orchids

Encyclia & Euchile

Encyclia Orchid Species - List of Species

Encyclia

The genus Encyclia is a widespread and diverse genus of orchids. There are approximately 242 species that are found growing throughout tropical America and the West Indies. All the species grow on tree or shrub branches in the wild. The prefer climates that have distinctive wet and dry seasons. Many species have foliage and growth characteristics similar to Cattleya species. The flower spike grows from the top of the pseudobulb. Some species have strikingly beautiful flowers. Other species have unremarkable or insignificant flowers. The largest flower of any of the Encyclia species is 4 cm. Some orchid collectors specialize in this genus and it is gaining in popularity. Encyclia orchids are used in breeding with other members of the Cattleya family to form interesting hybrids. The English botanist Hooker first described the type species, Encyclia viridiflora, in 1828.

Many species are easy to grow and can be very rewarding for beginners and expert hobbyists alike. Most grow well when mounted on tree branches, driftwood, cork mounts, tree fern plaques, or potted in fast-draining open growing media (like fir bark). Intermediate growing conditions are generally suitable for most species. Let plants dry between watering. Some require a dry winter rest.

Encyclia Species Orchids

Epidendrum yungasense

Native to: Bolivia. Epidendrum yungasense grows on trees in mountain forests between 1700 and 1900 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Medium?
Flower Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)
Flower Description: Flowers are produced on a terminal inflorescence.
Bloom Season: Spring?
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: Grow mounted on cork or tree fern. Mist and water regularly.
Synonyms: None.

Epidendrum xanthinum

Common Name: Yellow Epidendrum Orchid
Native to: Central America, northern South America. Epidendrum xanthinum grows as a terrestrial plant between 1500 and 2200 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Large. Epidendrum xanthinum has tall, reed-like stems with several alternate leaves along the length.
Flower Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)
Flower Description: The yellow flowers of Epidendrum xanthinum are clustered at the tip of a 24 inch (60 cm) stem that forms at the top of the cane.
Bloom Season: Spring, Fall
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: Epidendrum xanthinum is a terrestrial orchid grows best in well-drained pots with terrestrial orchid mix. Provide even water and fertilizer throughout the year. Stake if the stems become top heavy.
Synonyms: Epidendrum ellipticum var. flavum

Epidendrum wrightii

Native to: Cuba, Dominican Republic, Haiti. Epidendrum wrightii grows on trees in warm, humid forests at fairly low elevations.
Plant Size: Small. Epidendrum wrightii has reed-like stems with several leaves.
Flower Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum wrightii form on short flower stems that form on maturing canes. There are many flowers per growth.
Bloom Season: Spring to Fall
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: Keep this species on the dry side and provide bright light and sunny growing conditions. Grow mounted on cork or tree fern.
Synonyms: Amphiglottis wrightii, Epidendrum nasutum

Epidendrum whittenii

Common Name: Whitten's Epidendrum Orchid
Native to: Ecuador, Peru. Epidendrum whittenii grows on trees in the upper part of the canopy. This species grows on eastern slopes and foothills of the andes between 700 and 1400 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Miniature. Epidendrum whittenii has small reed-like stems with succulent leaves.
Flower Size: 1.25 inches (2.75 cm)
Flower Description: Up to four flowers are produced per growth. The fragrant flowers open up one at a time.
Bloom Season: Winter to Summer
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: Epidendrum whittenii was named in honor of Dr. Whitten who is an orchid researcher and enthusiast at the University of Florida. This species was first published in 1999.
Synonyms: None.

Epidendrum warrasii

Common Name: Warras' Epidendrum
Native to: Brazil. Epidendrum warrasii grows as a terrestrial plant or on rocks in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais.
Plant Size: Large. Epidendrum warrasii produces tall, reed-like stems with many sword-shaped leaves.
Flower Size: 0.8 inches (2 cm)
Flower Description: Several flowers bloom on a tall, gracefully arching flower stem.
Bloom Season: Spring to Summer
Growing Temperature: Cool
Additional Information: Epidendrum warrasii was discovered in 1973 and is named after the person who found the first specimen in Minas Gerais, Brazil. Grow in a pot or slatted basket with terrestrial orchid mix. The plants get large with age and may require staking to keep the tall stems erect.
Synonyms: None.

Epidendrum volutum

Common Name: Rolled-petal Epidendrum
Native to: Panama. Epidendrum volutum grows on trees.
Plant Size: Medium.
Flower Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)
Flower Description: Epidendrum volutum produces a 6 inch (15 cm) long arching flower stem that bears one flower. The flowers are fragrant and long-lasting. Flowering stems are produced at the tip of the stems as the growth begins to mature.
Bloom Season: Late Winter to Spring
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: Grow this species mounted on cork or tree fern. Provide warm, humid growing conditions and even water and fertilizer throughout the year.
Synonyms: Epidendrum radlkoferianum

Epidendrum viridibrunneum

Common Name: Green and Pale Brown Epidendrum Orchid
Native to: Ecuador, Peru. Epidendrum viridibrunneum grows on trees between 1100 and 1600 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Medium
Flower Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum viridibrunneum are green with brown markings.
Bloom Season: Fall
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: Epidendrum viridibrunneum was first described in 1861. Grow mounted on cork or grow in a slatted basket or well-drained pot. Provide even moisture and fertilizer throughout the year.
Synonyms: None.

Epidendrum villotae

Common Name: Villota's Epidendrum
Native to: Columbia and Ecuador. Epidendrum villotae grows on trees in mangrove and rain forests up to 260 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Medium. Epidendrum villotae has reed-like stems that have up to 6 leaves.
Flower Size: 1.25 inches (3 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum villotae are produced in great quantity on a tall flower stem. Although a mature plant can have 60 flower buds, only one or two are open at any one time. No fragrance.
Bloom Season: Fall is the main bloom season; it can bloom during other seasons.
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: Epidendrum villotae is named in honor of a Columbian orchid enthusiast. Grow mounted on cork or tree fern or grow in a slatted pot or basket. This species likes warm, humid growing conditions.
Synonyms: None.

Epidendrum vesicatum

Common Name: Bladder Epidendrum Orchid
Native to: Brazil. Epidendrum vesicatum grows on trees in warm, humid forests.
Plant Size: Medium. Epidendrum vesicatum has a pendant growth habit.
Flower Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)
Flower Description: Epidendrum vesicatum produces several flowers on a terminal inflorescence.
Bloom Season: Spring?
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: Epidendrum vesicatum was first discovered in 1838. Grow mounted on cork, driftwood, or tree fern. Water and mist regularly and provide adequate air circulation.
Synonyms: Epidendrum villotae

Epidendrum veroscriptum

Common Name: Lettered Epidendrum Orchid
Native to: Mexico, Costa Rica, Nicaragua. Epidendrum veroscriptum grows on trees between 700 and 1700 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Small to Medium. Epidendrum veroscriptum has short, cane-like stems that have a few leaves.
Flower Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)
Flower Description: Fragrant. Epidendrum veroscriptum blooms on a 15 inch (35 cm) branched flower stem. Many flowers bloom at once and perfume the air. The petals and sepals are green and the lip is white with purple markings.
Bloom Season: Summer to Fall
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: Epidendrum veroscriptum is an attractive species and is a welcome addition most any collection. Grow this species mounted on cork bark, tree fern, or grow in slatted baskets or well-drained pots. Provide even water and fertilizer throughout the year and warm growing conditions.
Synonyms: None.

Epidendrum upanodifforme

Common Name: Upano Difforme Epidendrum Orchid
Native to: Ecuador. Epidendrum upanodifforme is native to a river basin that is on the eastern slope of the Andes mountains. This species grows on trees between 1000 and 1600 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Medium. Epidendrum upanodifforme is variable in plant size. The stems have many leaves.
Flower Size: 0.5 inches (1 cm)
Flower Description: The small flowers are borne on a short terminal inflorescence that produces a few flowers. The flowers of Epidendrum upanodifforme are similar to Epidendrum difforme. All the flowers open at the same time.
Bloom Season: Spring
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: This species is related to Epidendrum difforme and can be grown the same way. Epidendrum upanodifforme was described in 1999 and is native to the Upano river basin.
Synonyms: None.

Epidendrum umbelliferum

Common Name: Umbel-Flowered Epidendrum
Native to: Florida, Mexico, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama, El Salvador, Columbia, Peru, Ecuador, Guyana, Brazil, and islands in the Caribbean. It grows on trees.
Plant Size: Miniature.
Flower Size: 0.5 inches (1 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum umbelliferum are produced on a tightly packed, unbranched terminal inflorescence.
Bloom Season: Spring
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: Epidendrum umbelliferum is closely related to Epidendrum difforme but has enough unique characteristics to remain as a distinct species. Grow mounted on cork bark or tree fern and provide even moisture and fertilizer throughout the year.
Synonyms: Epidendrum chlorocorymbos, Epidendrum panegyricum, Epidendrum pseudodifforme, Epidendrum subumbellatum

Epidendrum umbellatum

Common Name: Umbrella Epidendrum Orchid
Native to: Central America and northern South America and some Caribbean islands. Epidendrum umbellatum is widespread and adapts to growing on trees in many environments and niches.
Plant Size: Medium. Epidendrum umbellatum has stems with several leaves.
Flower Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum umbellatum are produced freely on a terminal inflorescence.
Bloom Season: Spring
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: Epidendrum umbellatum was first described to science in 1788 and is frequently confused with Epidendrum difforme. Grow mounted on cork or tree fern or driftwood. Provide water and fertilizer during the warm months and provide less water and nutrition during cooler months. This species is easy-to-grow.
Synonyms: Epidendrum panegyricum, Neolehmannia difformis

Epidendrum uleinanodes

Common Name: Ule's Dwarf-like Epidendrum Orchid
Native to: Brazil to Peru. Epidendrum uleinanodes grows in wet mountainous forests up to 1850 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Miniature. Epidendrum uleinanodes has short stems covered in elliptical leaves.
Flower Size: 0.5 inches (1.5 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum uleinanodes are produced in pairs on a short inflorescence. Flowers are large in proportion to the plant.
Bloom Season: Summer to Early Fall
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: Grow Epidendrum uleinanodes mounted on cork bark or tree fern fiber. Provide more water and fertilizer during warm months and keep the plant drier during the winter. This species is similar to Epidendrum schlechterianum but has a different color flower.
Synonyms: Epidendrum schizoclinandrium

Epidendrum tuxtlense

Common Name: Tuxtla Epidendrum
Native to: Mexico. Epidendrum tuxtlense is found growing in the Mexican states of Oaxaca and Vera Cruz. This species grows on trees in rain-forests and deciduous forests between 1300 and 1700 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Medium to Large. Epidendrum tuxtlense has tall, reed-like stems that have many leaves.
Flower Size: 0.33 inches (1 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum tuxtlense are produced on a short, tightly packed flower stem that develops from the tip of mature stems. Unlike most other species, the flower stem produces flowers for several years. One growth can produce up to 32 blooms. Flowers are fragrant.
Bloom Season: Late Spring to Early Fall
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: Epidendrum tuxtlense is named after the San Andres de Tuxtla region in the Mexican state of Vera Cruz. Grow mounted on cork or tree fern plaques or grow in a slatted basket. This species was first described to the scientific community in 1999 and is very similar to Epidendrum polyanthemum.
Synonyms: None.

Epidendrum tridens

Common Name: Three-toothed Epidendrum
Native to: Costa Rica, Guatemala, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Haiti, Jamaica, the Leeward Islands, Windward Islands, Trinidad and Tobago, Peru, Venezuela, Ecuador, Surinam, French Guiana, Guyana. Epidendrum tridens is widespread and common. This species grows between 1500 and 2500 meters in elevation on trees.
Plant Size: Medium. Epidendrum tridens has reed-like stems with several leaves.
Flower Size: 2.75 to 3.5 inches (7-9 cm)
Flower Description: The white flowers of Epidendrum tridens are very similar to Epidendrum nocturnum and are fragrant at night.
Bloom Season: Spring
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: Grow Epidendrum tridens mounted on cork bark or tree fern or grow in a well-drained pot with coarse growing media. Like many widespread species, this one is adaptable to many different growing conditions. Easy to grow.
Synonyms: Amphiglottis nocturna var. latifolia, Epidendrum carpophorum, Epidendrum nocturnum var. latifolium, Epidendrum nocturnum var. tridens, Epidendrum nocturnum var. tumuc-humaciense, Epidendrum tridens var. briegeri, Epidendrum tumuc-humaciense, Epidendrum tunguraguae

Epidendrum tridactylum

Common Name: Three-fingered Epidendrum Orchid
Native to: Mexico south to Panama, Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia. Epidendrum tridactylum grows on rock-strewn slopes in wet forests near 1900 meters in elevation. This species is a terrestrial plant.
Plant Size: Medium. Epidendrum tridactylum has reed-like stems that have four or five leaves.
Flower Size: 0.5 inches (1.5 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum tridactylum are produced on a branched inflorescence. The color of the flowers is highly variable.
Bloom Season: Spring
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: Grow Epidendrum tridactylum in well-drained pots with terrestrial orchid mix. Keep moist year-round and provide humid growing conditions. It is adaptable to many growing temperatures.
Synonyms: Amblostoma cernua, Amblostoma densum, Amblostoma dusenii, Amblostoma tridactylum, Epidendrum amblostoma

Epidendrum trialatum

Common Name: Three-winged Epidendrum Orchid
Native to: Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Panama. Epidendrum trialatum grows on trees up to 1000 meters in elevation in hot, semi-deciduous forests and rain forests.
Plant Size: Small. Epidendrum trialatum has short stems with three or four leaves.
Flower Size: 0.25 inches (1 cm)
Flower Description: The small flowers of Epidendrum trialatum are produced on a 1 inch (2.5 cm) unbranched inflorescence. Several flowers bloom on the stem from Fall to Spring.
Bloom Season: Fall to Spring
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: Epidendrum trialatum grows well on cork bark or in a small slatted basket. Provide warm growing conditions with more water during the spring and summer and drier conditions during the fall and winter.
Synonyms: None.

Epidendrum trachysepalum

Common Name: Rough-sepal Epidendrum Orchid
Native to: Ecuador and Peru. Epidendrum trachysepalum grows on trees in wet, mountainous forests between 1700 and 3200 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Small. Epidendrum trachysepalum has reed-like stems with several leaves. The stems form a few branches with age.
Flower Size: 0.75 inches (2 cm)
Flower Description: The small flowers of Epidendrum trachysepalum are produced on a short terminal inflorescence that produced up to nine flowers.
Bloom Season: Spring
Growing Temperature: Cool
Additional Information: Diothonea exasperata is best grown mounted on cork or tree fern bark or grown in a slatted wood basket. Provide cool, humid, moist growing conditions for best flowering.
Synonyms: Epidendrum trachysepalum

Epidendrum suavis

Common Name: Soft-flowered Epidendrum Orchid
Native to: Ecuador, Peru. Epidendrum suavis grows as a terrestrial plant on brush-covered slopes and disturbed areas on west-facing mountains. This species is found between 1600 and 3500 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Large. Epidendrum suavis has reed-like stems that develop branches with time.
Flower Size: 0.75 inches (2 cm)
Flower Description: The small flowers have a thin texture. Epidendrum suavis produces a branched terminal inflorescence that produces up to twelve flowers on the apical stems and up to eight flowers on the side branches. The flowers are fragrant and open at the same time.
Bloom Season: Late Winter to Spring
Growing Temperature: Cool
Additional Information: Epidendrum suavis grows best in well-drained pots with terrestrial orchid mix. Keep evenly moist throughout the year and provide cool, humid growing conditions.
Synonyms: Diothonea suavis

Epidendrum strobiliferum

Common Name: Pine-cone Epidendrum Orchid
Native to: South Florida, Central America, northern South America, Peru, Venezuela. Epidendrum strobiliferum grows on trees in disturbed areas up to 900 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Miniature. Epidendrum strobiliferum has reed-like stems. The stems grow in an pendant fashion and droop down. There are several fleshy, leathery leaves per stem.
Flower Size: Tiny. 0.25 inches (6 mm)
Flower Description: Epidendrum strobiliferum produces a few small flowers on a short terminal inflorescence that open over a period of time.
Bloom Season: Spring, Fall
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: Epidendrum strobiliferum has a pendant growing habit and is best grown mounted on cork bark, tree fern, or driftwood where the plant can hang freely. Provide ample water and fertilizer during warm months and keep the plant on the dry side during winter months. It can be grown with Cattleya orchids but is adaptable to warmer or cooler growing conditions.
Synonyms: Epidendrum mosenii, Epidendrum rodriguesii, Epidendrum strobiliferum var. swartzii, Epidendrum verrecundum. Isochilus ramosus, Spathiger strobiliferus

Epidendrum storkii

Common Name: Stork's Epidendrum
Native to: Costa Rica, Panama. Epidendrum storkii grows on trees in cloud forests between 1200 and 2500 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Small. The size of the plant is rather variable. Epidendrum storkii has leafy, reed-like stems that have up to 10 leaves.
Flower Size: 0.5 inches (1.5 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers are produced on terminal infloresences that bear up to four flowers which have a faint, sweet floral scent.
Bloom Season: Summer to Early Fall
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: Epidendrum storkii was named in honor of the Mr. Stork who was the original collector. This species is closely related to Epidendrum difforme var. storkii.
Synonyms: Epidendrum difforme var. storkii

Epidendrum stamfordianum

Common Name: Stamford's Epidendrum
Native to: Mexico south to Columbia and Venezuela. Epidendrum stamfordianum grows in seasonally dry forest and is usually found growing on large tree limbs.
Plant Size: Medium. Epidendrum stamfordianum has upright pseudobulbs with three or four oblong leaves.
Flower Size: 1.5 inches (3.75 cm)
Flower Description: The flower stem emerges from the base of a maturing pseudobulb and grows to 24 inches (60 cm) tall. Flowers are fragrant.
Bloom Season: Winter, Spring, Summer
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: Epidendrum stamfordianum was named after Mr. Stamford who was an English orchid grower and collector who lived during the 1800's. Grow mounted on driftwood or cork bark and provide ample water and frequent fertilization during the spring and summer months. Allow the plants to rest (i.e. reduce water and fertilizer) during the cooler fall and winter months. Wild-collected plants may sulk for up to two years before making new growth.
Synonyms: Auliza stamfordiana, Epidendrum basilare, Epidendrum cycnostachys, Epidendrum cycnostalix, Epidendrum stamfordianum var. lawrenceanum, Epidendrum stamfordianum var. leeanum, Epidendrum stamfordianum var. parviflorum, Epidendrum stamfordianum var. pictum, Epidendrum stamfordianum var. wallacei, Psilanthemum basilare

Epidendrum spathatum

Native to: Ecuador. Epidendrum spathatum grows on trees in cool mountain forests between 1600 to 3200 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Medium.
Flower Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers are produced on a branching flower stem. Epidendrum spathatum has many blooms open at one time.
Bloom Season: Summer
Growing Temperature: Cool
Additional Information: Epidendrum spathatum is closely related to Epidendrum porphyreum and may be a synonym. Grow mounted on cork bark or tree fern or in slatted baskets.
Synonyms: Epidendrum embreei

Epidendrum sophronitoides

Common Name: Sophronitis-Like Epidendrum Orchid
Native to: Epidendrum sophronitoides is native to Columbia and Ecuador. It grows on trees in cool, moist forests between 1400 and 3300 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Small?
Flower Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)?
Flower Description: description
Bloom Season: Spring
Growing Temperature: Cool
Additional Information: Epidendrum sophronitoides needs to be grown on cork bark or tree fern plaques
Synonyms: None.

Epidendrum sobralioides

Common Name: Sobralia-like Epidendrum
Native to: Guatemala. Epidendrum sobralioides grows on trees between 2000 and 2600 meters in elevation in mount forests.
Plant Size: Medium
Flower Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)?
Flower Description: description
Bloom Season: season
Growing Temperature: Cool
Additional Information: Epidendrum sobralioides was first discovered by Ames and Correll in 1943 in Guatemala. This species does not appear to be widely available in the trade at this time.
Synonyms: None.

Epidendrum serpens

Common Name: Serpent Epidendrum Orchid
Native to: Ecuador, Columbia, Venezuela. Epidendrum serpens grows on trees between 1600 and 3500 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Miniature. Epidendrum serpens has small oval pseudobulbs that have one leaf.
Flower Size: 0.5 inches (1.5 cm)
Flower Description: One small flower is produced on a flower stem that emerges from newly developed pseudobulbs.
Bloom Season: Spring
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: Epidendrum serpens does best when grow on cork or tree fern plaques. Provide even moisture and fertilizer throughout the year.
Synonyms: Epidendrum ornithidii, Hormidium serpens

Epidendrum selaginella

Common Name: Moss-like Epidendrum Orchid
Native to: Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Panama. Epidendrum selaginella grows on trees between 650 and 2400 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Miniature. Epidendrum selaginella covers tree branches with its creeping rhizomes that produce short stems with a few leaves on the upper-third of the stem. All parts of plant are small.
Flower Size: Tiny. 0.25 inches (0.5 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum selaginella are produced on short flower stems that bear up to eight flowers. All the flowers open at once.
Bloom Season: Winter
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: Microepidendrum selaginella is really a cute miniature orchid. Grow this species mounted on cork bark and let it ramble and create a solid mass. Keep on the moist side and mist frequently.
Synonyms: Microepidendrum selaginella

Epidendrum secundum

Common Name: Flowers in One Plane Epidendrum Orchid
Native to: Brazil, Columbia, Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela. Epidendrum secundum grows as a terrestrial plant between 600 and 3200 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Large. Epidendrum secundum has upright, leafy, reed-like stems.
Flower Size: 0.5 inches (1 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum secundum are variable in color and there are white, yellow, and rose color forms available. Flowers develop on terminal inflorescence that form on mature stems. There are many flowers clustered near the tip of the flower stem and the flowers bloom over a long period of time.
Bloom Season: Anytime of the year.
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: The common name is derived from the way that the flowers are arranged on the inflorescence. Grow in a well-drained pot with terrestrial orchid mix. Keep moist throughout the year. Easy to grow and adaptable. Large plants are impressive in bloom but take up a great deal of space. Some growers in mild climates grow the plants outside in the garden.
Synonyms: Amphiglottis corymbosa, Amphiglottis lacera, Amphiglottis secunda, Amphiglottis secunda, Encyclia pulcherrima, Epidendrum antioquiense, Epidendrum brachyphyllum, Epidendrum bulkeleyi, Epidendrum cochlidium, Epidendrum coroicoense, Epidendrum crassifolium, Epidendrum crassifolium var. albescens, Epidendrum cuzcoense, Epidendrum dichotomum, Epidendrum dolichopus, Epidendrum ellipticum, Epidendrum elongatum, Epidendrum evectum, Epidendrum expansum, Epidendrum fastigiatum, Epidendrum fimbria, Epidendrum giroudianum, Epidendrum gracilicaule, Epidendrum herzogii, Epidendrum incisum, Epidendrum inconstans, Epidendrum juruaense, Epidendrum lacerum, Epidendrum lindenii, Epidendrum longihastatum, Epidendrum novogranatense, Epidendrum pachyphyllum, Epidendrum polyschistum, Epidendrum pulcherrimum, Epidendrum secundum f. albescens, Epidendrum secundum var. albescens, Epidendrum sulfuratorium, Epidendrum tarmense, Epidendrum tricallosum, Epidendrum versicolor, Prosthechea pulcherrima

Epidendrum scriptum

Common Name: Spotted Epidendrum
Native to: Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Costa Rica. Epidendrum scriptum grows as a terrestrial plant near streams and rivers between 900 to 2000 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Large
Flower Size: 0.75 inches (2 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum scriptum are produced in quantity on a 4 inch (10 cm) terminal flower stem. The flowers open over a long period of time. There are spots on the flowers.
Bloom Season: Spring to Fall
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: Epidendrum scriptum is closely related to Epidendrum veroscriptum and Epidendrum paniculatum. Grow this species in well drained pots with good terrestrial orchid mix. Provide even water throughout the year. The plant blooms for a long period of time and produces impressive specimens with time.
Synonyms: None.

Epidendrum schomburgkii

Common Name: Schomburgk's Epidendrum
Native to: Columbia, Venezuela, Ecuador and the rest of northern South America. Epidendrum schomburgkii grows as a terrestrial plant between 200 and 2000 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Large. The reed-like leafy stems of Epidendrum schomburgkii grow to more than 1 meter (40 inches) in height. The leaves are leathery.
Flower Size: 1.5 inches (4 cm)
Flower Description: Epidendrum schomburgkii produces flowers on terminal inflorescence. Many flowers bloom over a long period of time.
Bloom Season: Fall to Early Winter
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: Jay Pfahl reports that "it is easy to grow in wood slat baskets filled with fen rock and OFE Special #2 and with long 4 wire hooks to support the 4 ft stems". Epidendrum schomburgkii is named after the Schomburgk brothers who were German explorers.
Synonyms: Epidendrum ibaguense, Epidendrum incisum, Epidendrum macrocarpum, Epidendrum splendens

Epidendrum schlechterianum

Common Name: Schlechter's Epidendrum
Native to: Panama. Epidendrum schlechterianum grows on oak trees and in wet rainforests from sea level to 360 meters.
Plant Size: Miniature to Small. Epidendrum schlechterianum has reed-like stems with many leaves.
Flower Size: 1.25 inches (3 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum schlechterianum are produced on a short flower stem that develops at the top of mature stems. There are usually two flowers produced per growth.
Bloom Season: Spring to Summer
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: Epidendrum schlechterianum is named after a german botanist and taxonomist from the early 20^th century. Mount on cork bark and mist frequently. This species needs warmth and humidity to be truly happy.
Synonyms: Epidendrum brevicaule, Epidendrum discolor, Epidendrum gonzalez-tamayoi, Nanodes brevicaule, Nanodes discolor, Nanodes schlechterianum

Epidendrum schistochilum

Common Name: Split-lip Epidendrum
Native to: Columbia, Ecuador. Epidendrum schistochilum grows as a terrestrial plant between 900 and 2500 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Large
Flower Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum schistochilum are produced on a terminal flower stem that develops on mature canes.
Bloom Season: Spring?
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: Epidendrum schistochilum was first described to the scientific community in 1924.
Synonyms: None.

Epidendrum saxatile

Common Name: Rock Living Epidendrum
Native to: Brazil, Peru, Venezuela. Epidendrum saxatile grows on Vellozia shrubs or rocks on dry shrubby hills between 950 and 1200 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Medium. Epidendrum saxatile has short stems with a few leaves. The stems branch with age.
Flower Size: 0.5 inches (1 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum saxatile are produced on a branched flower stem that develops at the top of mature stems. Each growth produces many flowers that are yellow or white.
Bloom Season: Fall
Growing Temperature: Cool to Warm
Additional Information: Grow mounted on wood or cork bark or grow in a well-drained pot. Provide bright light and let the plant dry between watering. Epidendrum saxatile is adaptable to many growing temperatures.
Synonyms: Epidendrum candidum, Epidendrum fractiflexum, Epidendrum goncalvii, Epidendrum miersii, Epidendrum vellozoi, Epidendrum weddelii

Epidendrum ruizianum

Common Name: Ruiz's Epidendrum
Native to: Bolivia, Columbia, Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela. Epidendrum ruizianum grows on trees or as a terrestrial plant in cool forests. It grows on steep, rocky slopes where it is exposed to the elements from 1200 to 3000 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Large. Epidendrum ruizianum has reed-like stems that have many leaves.
Flower Size: 0.75 inches (2 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum ruizianum are produced on a 6 inch (15 cm) terminal flower stem that has many flowers clustered at the tip. The flower stem can be branched. Flowers are fragrant and open over a long period of time.
Bloom Season: Late Summer to Winter (August to March in its native habitat).
Growing Temperature: Cool
Additional Information: Epidendrum ruizianum was named in honor of Dr. Ruiz who was a highly regarded botanist from the 18^th century. Do not confuse this species with Encyclia nutans which is unique. Grow in pots with terrestrial orchid mix or mount on cork bark. Provide cool growing conditions and bright light.
Synonyms: Epidendrum dipus, Epidendrum nutans, Epidendrum spathaceum

Epidendrum rousseauae

Common Name: Mrs. Rousseau's Epidendrum
Native to: Columbia, Costa Rica, Panama. Epidendrum rousseauae grows on trees at low elevation in warm, moist forests. It is found no higher than 1000 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Miniature. Epidendrum rousseauae has small, round, smooth pseudobulbs that have one elliptical leaf.
Flower Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum rousseauae are produced on a short inflorescence. There are few to several flowers produced per growth. Fragrant.
Bloom Season: Winter
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: Epidendrum rousseauae was named after the wife of Mr. Rousseau who was an orchid collector during the late ^th and early 20^th centuries. Grow this species mounted on cork bark or in small shallow pots. Provide even moisture and fertilizer throughout the year. This species prefers warmer and more humid growing conditions.
Synonyms: Auliza rousseauae

Epidendrum rondoniense

Common Name: Rondonia Epidendrum
Native to: Brazil. Epidendrum rondoniense is from southeastern Brazil. This species grows on trees and prefers growing high up in the canopy.
Plant Size: Small
Flower Size: 0.5 inches (1 cm)
Flower Description: The small flowers are produced on a terminal infloresence.
Bloom Season: Spring?
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: Epidendrum rondoniense was first described in 1990. Grow mounted on cork or in slatted baskets for good drainage.
Synonyms: None.

Epidendrum rigidum

Common Name: Rigid Epidendrum
Native to: South Florida, Caribbean islands, Mexico to Venezuela to Peru. Epidendrum rigidum grows in wet forests on trees. This tropical species is found in semi-deciduous, evergreen, and mangrove forests. It is found from sea level to 1300 meters.
Plant Size: Medium. Epidendrum rigidum has reed-like stems with up to six leaves.
Flower Size: 0.5 inches (1.2 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers are produced at the tip of the mature stems.
Bloom Season: Spring and Fall
Growing Temperature: Cool to Warm
Additional Information: Epidendrum rigidum has been found growing in south Florida. Grow mounted on cork bark or tree fern plaques or grow in a well-drained pot or slatted basket.
Synonyms: Epidendrum cardiophorum, Epidendrum pium, Spathiger rigidus

Epidendrum rhizomaniacum

Common Name: Rhizome Epidendrum
Native to: Ecuador. Epidendrum rhizomaniacum grows on trees in mountain cloud forests between 250 and 1600 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Small. Epidendrum rhizomaniacum has reed-like stems with several leaves. The stem is covered in leaf sheaths.
Flower Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum rhizomaniacum produce two flowers on short, persistent inflorescences. The flower stems produce flowers for many years.
Bloom Season: Blooms any time of the year.
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: Do not remove the flower stem after the blooms fade because the flower stems will produce flowers for many years. Grow mounted on tree fern or cork or grow in a pot with a coarse, open growing media.
Synonyms: None.

Epidendrum repens

Common Name: Crawling Epidendrum
Native to: Mexico south to Panama, Columbia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Jamaica, Dominican Republic, and Leeward Islands. Epidendrum repens is a widespread species that grows on trees.
Plant Size: Small. The sprawling stems are long and are covered with green leaves.
Flower Size: 0.75 inches (2 cm)
Flower Description: Flowers are produced singly on a short infloresence at the leaf axil. The plants bloom over a long period of time.
Bloom Season: Spring to Fall
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: This widespread species is somewhat variable and has a creeping habit. Grow mounted on in shallow pots and let the stems ramble over the edge.
Synonyms: Epidendrum bourgeaui, Epidendrum protractum, Epidendrum ramistratum, Epidendrum solisequum, Spathiger repens

Epidendrum renzii

Common Name: Renz's Epidendrum
Native to: Venezuela. Epidendrum renzii is found growing on trees fairly low in the canopy between 1900 and 2300 meters in elevation in the northwestern part of Venezuela.
Plant Size: Small. Epidendrum renzii has narrow, pendent stems with a few leaves.
Flower Size: 0.25 inches (0.5 cm)
Flower Description: The tiny flowers of Epidendrum renzii are produced on a short flower stem that has up to four flowers.
Bloom Season: Spring
Growing Temperature: Cool
Additional Information: Due to this species pendant habit, Epidendrum renzii needs to be grown mounted on cork bark, driftwood, or tree fern. Provide water and fertilizer throughout the year.
Synonyms: None.

Epidendrum raniferum

Common Name: Frog-carrying Epidendrum
Native to: Mexico to Costa Rica. Epidendrum raniferum grows on trees in wet forests.
Plant Size: Large. Epidendrum raniferum has tall, upright reed-like stems.
Flower Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum raniferum are produced on a terminal inflorescence that grows to 7 inches (18 cm) in height. Flowers are formed on mature stems.
Bloom Season: Fall. Sometimes in the Spring.
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: Grow Epidendrum raniferum mounted on cork or grow in a slatted basket. Provide water and fertilizer throughout the year.
Synonyms: Epidendrum raniferum var. luteum, Epidendrum raniferum var. lutescens, Epidendrum raniferum var. hexadactylum, Epidendrum raniferum var. obtusilobum

Epidendrum radioferens

Common Name: Rayed-lip Epidendrum
Native to: Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras. Epidendrum radioferens grows on trees in wet forests.
Plant Size: Medium.
Flower Size: Small.
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum radioferens are produced on a terminal inflorescence that develops on mature growths.
Bloom Season: Winter
Growing Temperature: Cool to Warm
Additional Information: Grow this species mounted on cork bark or tree fern plaques. Provide ample water and fertilizer during periods of active growth and reduce water during cool months of the year.
Synonyms: Epidendrum arbuscula var. radioferens

Epidendrum radicans

Common Name: Ground-rooting Epidendrum Orchid
Native to: Mexico to Columbia. Epidendrum radicans is a widespread species that grows as a terrestrial plant in moist rocky meadows. and disturbed areas in mixed pine-oak forests. It is found growing between 900 and 2500 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Large. Epidendrum radicans has tall reed-like stems with numerous linear leaves. The plant has roots all along the stem. The plants have creeping habit.
Flower Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum radicans are produced on a terminal inflorescence that grows to 15 inches (50 cm) tall. Many flowers are clustered at the tip of the stem and the flowers open over a period of time.
Bloom Season: Spring to Fall
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: Epidendrum radicans is one of the most common reed-stem Epidendrum species. Grow in a pot with terrestrial orchid mix. The plants develop large specimens with age and bloom heavily for a long period of time. Easy to grow. Epidendrum radicans is closely related to Epidendrum ibaguense.
Synonyms: Epidendrum pratense, Epidendrum rhizophorum

Epidendrum quisayanum

Common Name: Quisaya Epidendrum Orchid
Native to: Ecuador. Epidendrum quisayanum grows on trees between 1300 to 3300 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Small
Flower Size: Small
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum quisayanum are produced on a terminal inflorescence on mature stems.
Bloom Season: Fall to Spring
Growing Temperature: Cool
Additional Information: Grow mounted on cork bark or tree fern or in a slatted basket. Provide cool, humid growing conditions and even water and fertilizer throughout the year. Epidendrum quisayanum was first described in 1916.
Synonyms: None.

Epidendrum quinquepartitum

Common Name: Five-lobed Epidendrum Orchid
Native to: Bolivia.
Plant Size: Medium
Flower Size: Small
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum quinquepartitum are produced on a pendant, terminal inflorescence. The lip has five lobes.
Bloom Season: Fall to Winter
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: Epidendrum quinquepartitum was first described in 1922. Grow mounted on cork bark slabs or grow in a slatted basket. Provide even water and fertilizer throughout the year.
Synonyms: None.

Epidendrum purum

Common Name: Single-colored Epidendrum Orchid
Native to: Ecuador, Columbia, Venezuela. Epidendrum purum is widespread and found throughout much of northern South America. It grows on trees in moist forests from 500 to 2800 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Medium. Epidendrum purum has reed-like stems with thin, narrow green leaves.
Flower Size: 0.75 inches (2 cm)
Flower Description: Epidendrum purum produces many flowers on a terminal inflorescence. The flowers are fragrant.
Bloom Season: Fall to Winter
Growing Temperature: Cool to Warm
Additional Information: Epidendrum purum can be grown on cork bark slabs, slatted baskets, or pots with coarse growing media. Provide ample water and fertilizer during periods of active growth and reduce water after growth matures.
Synonyms: None.

Epidendrum pugioniforme

Common Name: Dagger-shaped Epidendrum
Native to: Mexico. Epidendrum pugioniforme grows on oak trees and rocks in mixed pine-oak forests. This species is only found growing in the southwestern portion of Mexico.
Plant Size: Medium. Epidendrum pugioniforme grows upside down (pendant) and has pseudobulbs that grow up to six inches (15 cm) tall. Each growth produces up to five leaves.
Flower Size: 2.25 inches (5.5 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum pugioniforme are produced on newly matured pseudobulbs that have up to 10 star-shaped, copper-brown flowers. The lip is green and shaped like a dagger. The flowers are lightly fragrant and have a soapy scent.
Bloom Season: Winter to early Summer
Growing Temperature: Cool
Additional Information: Epidendrum pugioniforme was first described to the scientific community in 1890. Due to the pendant growing habit of this species, it needs to be grown mounted on cork bark, tree fern, or driftwood. Provide a semi-dry rest period during the cooler months and increase water and fertilizer when growth begins.
Synonyms: None.

Epidendrum pseudonocturnum

Common Name: False Nocturnum Epidendrum
Native to: Ecuador, Columbia. Epidendrum pseudonocturnum is found in the norther part of Ecuador and possibly in the southernmost portion of Columbia. Distribution data is somewhat sketchy and inconclusive at this time. This species grows on disturbed slopes as a terrestrial plant or trees at low elevation. It grows between 250 and 800 meters of elevation.
Plant Size: Small to Medium. Epidendrum pseudonocturnum has upright, fleshy stems with up to eight leaves.
Flower Size: 2.5 inches (6 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum pseudonocturnum are similar to those of Epidendrum nocturnum. Flowers are produced on a terminal inflorescence that produces flowers for many years.
Bloom Season: Winter
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: Epidendrum pseudonocturnum is closely related to Epidendrum nocturnum but differs in stem and flower details. Grow on cork or in pots with terrestrial orchid mix. It prefers warm, humid environments.
Synonyms: None.

Epidendrum pseudohueycatenangense

Common Name: False Hueycatena Epidendrum
Native to: Mexico. Epidendrum pseudohueycatenangense grows on oak trees around 1300 meters in the Mexican state of Oaxaca.
Plant Size: Small.
Flower Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum pseudohueycatenangense are produced on short terminal inflorescence that bear a few flowers. The flowers open over an extended period to time.
Bloom Season: Winter?
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: False Hueycatena Epidendrum was named after the Mexican town of Hueycatena. Grow mounted on cork bark and provide even moisture.
Synonyms: None.

Epidendrum pseudoanceps

Common Name: The Almost Anceps-like Epidendrum Orchid
Native to: Peru. Epidendrum pseudoanceps grows on trees in wet mountain forests between 1400 and 1800 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Large. Epidendrum pseudoanceps has reed-like stems. The leaves are dark green on top and have a purplish cast on the underside.
Flower Size: 1.5 inches (3.5 cm)
Flower Description: Epidendrum pseudoanceps produces flowers on a 5 inch (12 cm) long pendant flower stem. Several flowers are produced at the tip of the inflorescence.
Bloom Season: Spring, Fall
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: Epidendrum pseudoanceps is closely related to Epidendrum anceps. Grow mounted on cork bark or tree fern plaques or in pots with coarse growing media. Provide warm, humid growing conditions with ample water during periods of active growth.
Synonyms: None.

Epidendrum pseudepidendrum

Common Name: False Epidendrum
Native to: Costa Rica, Panama. Epidendrum pseudepidendrum is native to lowland rain forests up to 2000 meters in elevation. It grows on trees.
Plant Size: Large. Epidendrum pseudepidendrum has upright, slender, reed-like stems with a few leaves.
Flower Size: Up to 3 inches (7.5 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum pseudepidendrum have narrow green petals and sepals and a striking orange lip. Newly matured growths produce terminal flower stems that have up to five flowers.
Bloom Season: Late Winter to Early Spring
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: Grow Pseudepidendrum spectabile mounted on cork bark or tree fern fiber or grow in a well-drained pot. Provide humidity and fertilizer throughout the year. The flowers are interesting and many people have this species in their orchid collections.
Synonyms: Pseudepidendrum spectabile