Epidendrum costatum
Common Name: Ruby-lipped Epidendrum
Native to: Mexico. Epidendrum costatum grows on the branches of large oak trees in the Mexican state of Oaxaca. Frequently it is found in the same habitat and range of Epidendrum oaxacanum.
Plant Size: Medium
Flower Size: Small
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum costatum bloom over a long period of time on a flower stem that develops from the top of maturing stems. Few to many flowers are produced per growth.
Bloom Season: Winter
Growing Temperature: Warm to Intermediate
Additional Information: This species was first described in 1945 and is known for its ruby-colored lip. Flowers are attractive and desirable. Grow mounted on cork bark or in a pot with a coarse, open growing media. Provide humidity and water throughout the year.
Synonyms: None.
Epidendrum coryophorum - Helmet-Carrying Epidendrum
Epidendrum coryophorum
Common Name: Helmet-Carrying Epidendrum
Native to: Columbia, Ecuador. Epidendrum coryophorum grows in wet mountain forests between 1400 and 3800 meters in elevation where it is found growing on trees.
Plant Size: Medium. The plants have medium-height stems with many leaves.
Flower Size: 0.5 inches (1.5 cm)
Flower Description: Many flowers bloom on a branched flower stem that grows to 10 inches (25 cm) in length. Flowers open over a long period of time.
Bloom Season: Late Fall
Growing Temperature: Cool
Additional Information: Epidendrum coryophorum blooms over a long period of time in the late fall. Grow in cool, humid conditions either mounted on cork bark or in a pot with a coarse, open media. Provide even moisture and fertilizer throughout the year.
Synonyms: Epidendrum bulbophylloides, Epidendrum corymbosum, Epidendrum linearilingue, Stenoglossum coriophorum, Stenoglossum corynephorum, Stenoglossum coryophorum, Stenoglossum subulatum
Common Name: Helmet-Carrying Epidendrum
Native to: Columbia, Ecuador. Epidendrum coryophorum grows in wet mountain forests between 1400 and 3800 meters in elevation where it is found growing on trees.
Plant Size: Medium. The plants have medium-height stems with many leaves.
Flower Size: 0.5 inches (1.5 cm)
Flower Description: Many flowers bloom on a branched flower stem that grows to 10 inches (25 cm) in length. Flowers open over a long period of time.
Bloom Season: Late Fall
Growing Temperature: Cool
Additional Information: Epidendrum coryophorum blooms over a long period of time in the late fall. Grow in cool, humid conditions either mounted on cork bark or in a pot with a coarse, open media. Provide even moisture and fertilizer throughout the year.
Synonyms: Epidendrum bulbophylloides, Epidendrum corymbosum, Epidendrum linearilingue, Stenoglossum coriophorum, Stenoglossum corynephorum, Stenoglossum coryophorum, Stenoglossum subulatum
Epidendrum coronatum - Crown-Like Epidendrum
Epidendrum coronatum
Common Name: Crown-Like Epidendrum
Native to: Trinidad and Nicaragua south to Venezuela and Peru. Epidendrum coronatum grows on tree branched and tree trunks and even the occasional rock outcropping in moist mountainous forests between 100 and 1500 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Large. Epidendrum coronatum is a tall reed-stem type Epidendrum that has upright stems with many leaves.
Flower Size: 1.75 inches (4 cm)
Flower Description: The colorful flowers of Epidendrum coronatum are produced on an arching flower stem that emerges from the top of mature stems.
Bloom Season: Winter to Spring
Growing Temperature: Cool to Warm
Additional Information: Epidendrum coronatum is an attractive and robust member of the genus that produces ample colorful flowers. Grow in pots with a coarse, high-quality orchid mix. Provide even moisture and fertilizer throughout the year.
Synonyms: Epidendrum amazonicum, Epidendrum benignum, Epidendrum compositum, Epidendrum moyobambae, Epidendrum subpatens, Epidendrum sulphuroleucum
Common Name: Crown-Like Epidendrum
Native to: Trinidad and Nicaragua south to Venezuela and Peru. Epidendrum coronatum grows on tree branched and tree trunks and even the occasional rock outcropping in moist mountainous forests between 100 and 1500 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Large. Epidendrum coronatum is a tall reed-stem type Epidendrum that has upright stems with many leaves.
Flower Size: 1.75 inches (4 cm)
Flower Description: The colorful flowers of Epidendrum coronatum are produced on an arching flower stem that emerges from the top of mature stems.
Bloom Season: Winter to Spring
Growing Temperature: Cool to Warm
Additional Information: Epidendrum coronatum is an attractive and robust member of the genus that produces ample colorful flowers. Grow in pots with a coarse, high-quality orchid mix. Provide even moisture and fertilizer throughout the year.
Synonyms: Epidendrum amazonicum, Epidendrum benignum, Epidendrum compositum, Epidendrum moyobambae, Epidendrum subpatens, Epidendrum sulphuroleucum
Epidendrum coriifolium - Leather-Like Leaf Epidendrum
Epidendrum coriifolium
Common Name: Leather-Like Leaf Epidendrum
Native to: Mexico and Central America south to Bolivia, Peru, and Venezuela. Epidendrum coriifolium grows in wet tropical and subtropical mountain forests from 350 to 1500 meters in elevation. It can grow on trees, rocks, or in the ground as a terrestrial orchid.
Plant Size: Medium. Epidendrum coriifolium has reed-like stems that have green leaves with purple undersides.
Flower Size: 1.5 to 2 inches (4-5 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers are large and attractive but have a rather unpleasant fragrance. A few to several large purple flowers are produced on a 10 inch (25 cm) tall flower stem that emerges from freshly maturing pseudobulbs.
Bloom Season: Winter.
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool (Adaptable)
Additional Information: Epidendrum coriifolium is a widespread and adaptable species that is easy to grow mounted on cork or in pots. Provide even moisture and fertilizer throughout the year.
Synonyms: Epidendrum fuscopurpureum, Epidendrum imitans, Epidendrum magnibracteatum, Epidendrum palmense, Epidendrum subviolascens
Native to: Mexico and Central America south to Bolivia, Peru, and Venezuela. Epidendrum coriifolium grows in wet tropical and subtropical mountain forests from 350 to 1500 meters in elevation. It can grow on trees, rocks, or in the ground as a terrestrial orchid.
Plant Size: Medium. Epidendrum coriifolium has reed-like stems that have green leaves with purple undersides.
Flower Size: 1.5 to 2 inches (4-5 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers are large and attractive but have a rather unpleasant fragrance. A few to several large purple flowers are produced on a 10 inch (25 cm) tall flower stem that emerges from freshly maturing pseudobulbs.
Bloom Season: Winter.
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool (Adaptable)
Additional Information: Epidendrum coriifolium is a widespread and adaptable species that is easy to grow mounted on cork or in pots. Provide even moisture and fertilizer throughout the year.
Synonyms: Epidendrum fuscopurpureum, Epidendrum imitans, Epidendrum magnibracteatum, Epidendrum palmense, Epidendrum subviolascens
Epidendrum cooperianum - Cooper's Epidendrum
Epidendrum cooperianum
Common Name: Cooper's Epidendrum
Native to: Brazil. Epidendrum cooperianum grows on trees in the Serra da Mantiqueira mountains around 1000 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Medium
Flower Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)
Flower Description: Flowers of Epidendrum cooperianum are produced on an unbranched flower stem. Many flowers boom at once.
Bloom Season: Summer
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: Some experts think that this species is actually Epidendrum longispathum. Grow mounted on cork bark or grow in a pot with coarse, free-draining orchid mix.
Synonyms: Epidendrum longispathum
Common Name: Cooper's Epidendrum
Native to: Brazil. Epidendrum cooperianum grows on trees in the Serra da Mantiqueira mountains around 1000 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Medium
Flower Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)
Flower Description: Flowers of Epidendrum cooperianum are produced on an unbranched flower stem. Many flowers boom at once.
Bloom Season: Summer
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: Some experts think that this species is actually Epidendrum longispathum. Grow mounted on cork bark or grow in a pot with coarse, free-draining orchid mix.
Synonyms: Epidendrum longispathum
Epidendrum conopseum - Greenfly Orchid
Epidendrum conopseum
Common Name: Greenfly Orchid
Native to: Florida, Mexico. Epidendrum conopseum grows on trees at low elevations. In Florida, it can be found growing in cypress swamp plant communities.
Plant Size: Small. The upright stems are reed-like and have many leaves. Roots are thick and spongy.
Flower Size: 0.75 inches (2.3 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers are borne on a simple, unbranched flower spike that grows to 6 inches (16 cm) tall.
Bloom Season: Fall to Spring
Growing Temperature: Cool to Warm (adaptable)
Additional Information: Epidendrum conopseum is called the green fly orchid because of the shape of its lip which is used to attract a pollinator. Easy to grow and common in its native habitat. Grow mounted on cork or tree fern and provide even moisture. There is a Mexican variety; Epidendrum conopseum var. mexicanum. This variety grows on trees in pine-oak forests in the mountains of Mexico between 1100 and 2000 meters in the Mexican state of San Luis Potosi.
Synonyms: Amphiglottis conopsea, Epidendrum magnoliae, Larnandra conopsea, Epidendrum magnoliae
Common Name: Greenfly Orchid
Native to: Florida, Mexico. Epidendrum conopseum grows on trees at low elevations. In Florida, it can be found growing in cypress swamp plant communities.
Plant Size: Small. The upright stems are reed-like and have many leaves. Roots are thick and spongy.
Flower Size: 0.75 inches (2.3 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers are borne on a simple, unbranched flower spike that grows to 6 inches (16 cm) tall.
Bloom Season: Fall to Spring
Growing Temperature: Cool to Warm (adaptable)
Additional Information: Epidendrum conopseum is called the green fly orchid because of the shape of its lip which is used to attract a pollinator. Easy to grow and common in its native habitat. Grow mounted on cork or tree fern and provide even moisture. There is a Mexican variety; Epidendrum conopseum var. mexicanum. This variety grows on trees in pine-oak forests in the mountains of Mexico between 1100 and 2000 meters in the Mexican state of San Luis Potosi.
Synonyms: Amphiglottis conopsea, Epidendrum magnoliae, Larnandra conopsea, Epidendrum magnoliae
Epidendrum compressum - Compressed Epidendrum
Epidendrum compressum
Common Name: Compressed Epidendrum
Native to: Bolivia, Columbia, Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela, Trinidad. Epidendrum compressum grows on trees in wet mountainous forests. It's habitat ranges from 110 meters to 1700 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Small. Compact plants of Epidendrum compressum have fleshy stems with up to four leaves.
Flower Size: 0.25 inches (1 cm)
Flower Description: Flowers of Epidendrum compressum are small and bloom on an arching flower stem that grows up to 16 inches (40 cm) long.
Bloom Season: Winter to Early Spring
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: Grow Epidendrum compressum mounted on cork or tree fern or in a pot with coarse open media. Provide warmth, humidity, and constant moisture and nutrition throughout the year. The species was first described to the scientific community in 1864.
Synonyms: Epidendrum guentherianum, Epidendrum laxum, Epidendrum macrothyrsis, Epidendrum yatapuense, Minicolumna laxa, Minicolumna yatapuensis
Common Name: Compressed Epidendrum
Native to: Bolivia, Columbia, Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela, Trinidad. Epidendrum compressum grows on trees in wet mountainous forests. It's habitat ranges from 110 meters to 1700 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Small. Compact plants of Epidendrum compressum have fleshy stems with up to four leaves.
Flower Size: 0.25 inches (1 cm)
Flower Description: Flowers of Epidendrum compressum are small and bloom on an arching flower stem that grows up to 16 inches (40 cm) long.
Bloom Season: Winter to Early Spring
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: Grow Epidendrum compressum mounted on cork or tree fern or in a pot with coarse open media. Provide warmth, humidity, and constant moisture and nutrition throughout the year. The species was first described to the scientific community in 1864.
Synonyms: Epidendrum guentherianum, Epidendrum laxum, Epidendrum macrothyrsis, Epidendrum yatapuense, Minicolumna laxa, Minicolumna yatapuensis
Epidendrum compressibulbum - Compressed Pseudobulb Epidendrum
Epidendrum compressibulbum
Common Name: Compressed Pseudobulb Epidendrum
Native to: Peru. Epidendrum compressibulbum grows in damp mountain forests. This species grows on tree branches around 1000 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Medium. The plant has compressed pseudobulbs with two or three oblong leaves.
Flower Size: Tiny. 4 mm.
Flower Description: The tiny flowers are tightly clustered along a 12 inch (30 cm) branched flower stem. Up to 100 flowers bloom at a time.
Bloom Season: Fall
Growing Temperature: Cool to Warm
Additional Information: This species is highly attractive and unique. Grow in a pot or slatted basket or mounted on cork or tree fern slab. Epidendrum compressibulbum needs water and fertilizer year round for best results. While it is not the easiest plant to grow, it is worth they effort. Provide humidty and air circulation for best results.
Synonyms: None.
Common Name: Compressed Pseudobulb Epidendrum
Native to: Peru. Epidendrum compressibulbum grows in damp mountain forests. This species grows on tree branches around 1000 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Medium. The plant has compressed pseudobulbs with two or three oblong leaves.
Flower Size: Tiny. 4 mm.
Flower Description: The tiny flowers are tightly clustered along a 12 inch (30 cm) branched flower stem. Up to 100 flowers bloom at a time.
Bloom Season: Fall
Growing Temperature: Cool to Warm
Additional Information: This species is highly attractive and unique. Grow in a pot or slatted basket or mounted on cork or tree fern slab. Epidendrum compressibulbum needs water and fertilizer year round for best results. While it is not the easiest plant to grow, it is worth they effort. Provide humidty and air circulation for best results.
Synonyms: None.
Epidendrum cogniauxianum
Epidendrum cogniauxianum
Native to: place
Plant Size: size
Flower Size: size
Flower Description: description
Bloom Season: season
Growing Temperature: temp
Additional Information: something interesting
Synonyms: Get names
Native to: place
Plant Size: size
Flower Size: size
Flower Description: description
Bloom Season: season
Growing Temperature: temp
Additional Information: something interesting
Synonyms: Get names
Epidendrum cochabambanum - Cochabamba Epidendrum
Epidendrum cochabambanum
Common Name: Cochabamba Epidendrum
Native to: Epidendrum cochabambanum is native to Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia where it grows on trees between 170 to 2400 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: size
Flower Size: size
Flower Description: description
Bloom Season: Fall
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: Epidendrum cochabambanum is named after a city in Bolivia where the species has been collected.
Synonyms: None.
Common Name: Cochabamba Epidendrum
Native to: Epidendrum cochabambanum is native to Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia where it grows on trees between 170 to 2400 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: size
Flower Size: size
Flower Description: description
Bloom Season: Fall
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: Epidendrum cochabambanum is named after a city in Bolivia where the species has been collected.
Synonyms: None.
Epidendrum cnemidophorum - Leg-Armor Epidendrum
Epidendrum cnemidophorum
Common Name: Leg-Armor Epidendrum
Native to: Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica. Epidendrum cnemidophorum grows in humid could forests on trees.
Plant Size: Medium
Flower Size: 2 inches (5 cm)
Flower Description: Flowers are dark in color and attractive. The flower spike has between 3 and 10 flowers in the winter.
Bloom Season: Winter
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: Grow Epidendrum cnemidophorum either mounted or grown in well-drained pots with a coarse growing media. Provide constant moisture and fertilizer throughout the year. Newer cultivars are coming on the market that have improved flower color and form.
Synonyms: Encyclia affinis, Epidendrum affine, Epidendrum macrobotryum
Common Name: Leg-Armor Epidendrum
Native to: Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica. Epidendrum cnemidophorum grows in humid could forests on trees.
Plant Size: Medium
Flower Size: 2 inches (5 cm)
Flower Description: Flowers are dark in color and attractive. The flower spike has between 3 and 10 flowers in the winter.
Bloom Season: Winter
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: Grow Epidendrum cnemidophorum either mounted or grown in well-drained pots with a coarse growing media. Provide constant moisture and fertilizer throughout the year. Newer cultivars are coming on the market that have improved flower color and form.
Synonyms: Encyclia affinis, Epidendrum affine, Epidendrum macrobotryum
Epidendrum clowesii - Clowe's Epidendrum
Epidendrum clowesii
Common Name: Clowe's Epidendrum
Native to: Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador. Epidendrum clowesii grows on rocks and trees in tropical deciduous forests between 500 and 1600 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Medium. The stems are upright and leafy.
Flower Size: about 1 inch (2.5 cm)
Flower Description: The small flowers develop on a simple or branched arching inflorescence that grows to 12 inches (30 cm) tall.
Bloom Season: Spring to Summer
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: Grow mounted or in pots with coarse open media. Provide even water and fertilizer throughout the year. Epidendrum clowesii was named after an English orchid collector from the 19th century.
Synonyms: Epidendrum chlorops, Epidendrum flavovirens, Epidendrum piestocaulos
Common Name: Clowe's Epidendrum
Native to: Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador. Epidendrum clowesii grows on rocks and trees in tropical deciduous forests between 500 and 1600 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Medium. The stems are upright and leafy.
Flower Size: about 1 inch (2.5 cm)
Flower Description: The small flowers develop on a simple or branched arching inflorescence that grows to 12 inches (30 cm) tall.
Bloom Season: Spring to Summer
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: Grow mounted or in pots with coarse open media. Provide even water and fertilizer throughout the year. Epidendrum clowesii was named after an English orchid collector from the 19th century.
Synonyms: Epidendrum chlorops, Epidendrum flavovirens, Epidendrum piestocaulos
Epidendrum clavatum - Purple Epidendrum
Epidendrum clavatum
Common Name: Purple Epidendrum
Native to: Costa Rica south to northern South America. Epidendrum clavatum is widespread and common. It grows on trees in warm tropical forests where it grows on trees.
Plant Size: Medium. Epidendrum clavatum has pseudobulbs with one leaf.
Flower Size: 1.5 inches (6.5 cm)
Flower Description: Flowers are large and attractive and bloom on a 10 inch (25 cm) long stem. The flower stem develops on freshly matured pseudobulbs. Fragrant.
Bloom Season: Spring to Summer
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: This fragrant species grows well in pots. Provide even water and fertilizer year-round. Sometimes the flower stem produces "keikis" or baby plants. These can be separated from the stem when they have roots and propagated.
Synonyms: Epidendrum purpurascens
Common Name: Purple Epidendrum
Native to: Costa Rica south to northern South America. Epidendrum clavatum is widespread and common. It grows on trees in warm tropical forests where it grows on trees.
Plant Size: Medium. Epidendrum clavatum has pseudobulbs with one leaf.
Flower Size: 1.5 inches (6.5 cm)
Flower Description: Flowers are large and attractive and bloom on a 10 inch (25 cm) long stem. The flower stem develops on freshly matured pseudobulbs. Fragrant.
Bloom Season: Spring to Summer
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: This fragrant species grows well in pots. Provide even water and fertilizer year-round. Sometimes the flower stem produces "keikis" or baby plants. These can be separated from the stem when they have roots and propagated.
Synonyms: Epidendrum purpurascens
Epidendrum citrosmum - Lemon-Scented Epidendrum
Epidendrum citrosmum
Common Name: Lemon-Scented Epidendrum
Native to: Mexico. Epidendrum citrosmum grows on trees in tropical deciduous forests that border the Pacific Coast.
Plant Size: Small. The stems are cane-like and have many leaves.
Flower Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)
Flower Description: Flowers smell like lemon. The flower color of Epidendrum citrosmum is bright green and few to many flowers bloom at once on a terminal flower stem.
Bloom Season: Winter to Spring.
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: Epidendrum citrosmum is another small, reed-stem species from southern Mexico. The fragrance and attractive green flowers make this plant an interesting specimen for your collection. The scent smells more like the crushed foliage of a lemon tree rather than the scent of the fruit.
Synonyms: None.
Common Name: Lemon-Scented Epidendrum
Native to: Mexico. Epidendrum citrosmum grows on trees in tropical deciduous forests that border the Pacific Coast.
Plant Size: Small. The stems are cane-like and have many leaves.
Flower Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)
Flower Description: Flowers smell like lemon. The flower color of Epidendrum citrosmum is bright green and few to many flowers bloom at once on a terminal flower stem.
Bloom Season: Winter to Spring.
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: Epidendrum citrosmum is another small, reed-stem species from southern Mexico. The fragrance and attractive green flowers make this plant an interesting specimen for your collection. The scent smells more like the crushed foliage of a lemon tree rather than the scent of the fruit.
Synonyms: None.
Epidendrum cirrhochilum - Tendril-Lip Epidendrum
Epidendrum cirrhochilum
Common Name: Tendril-Lip Epidendrum
Native to: Columbia, Ecuador, Panama. Epidendrum cirrhochilum is native to wet, mountainous cloud forests between 650 and 1500 meters in elevation where it grows on trees or in the ground.
Plant Size: Large. Epidendrum cirrhochilum has leafy, reed-like stems.
Flower Size: 0.5 inches (1.5 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum cirrhochilum are produced on an 8 inch (20 cm) long stem. Several flowers are in bloom at a time.
Bloom Season: Flowers any time of the year.
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: Epidendrum cirrhochilum is closely related to Epidendrum paniculatum but differs in a few ways. Grow in pots in a coarse growing media and provide warm, humid conditions with adequate air circulation. Large plants make attractive specimens. Easy to grow.
Synonyms: None.
Common Name: Tendril-Lip Epidendrum
Native to: Columbia, Ecuador, Panama. Epidendrum cirrhochilum is native to wet, mountainous cloud forests between 650 and 1500 meters in elevation where it grows on trees or in the ground.
Plant Size: Large. Epidendrum cirrhochilum has leafy, reed-like stems.
Flower Size: 0.5 inches (1.5 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum cirrhochilum are produced on an 8 inch (20 cm) long stem. Several flowers are in bloom at a time.
Bloom Season: Flowers any time of the year.
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: Epidendrum cirrhochilum is closely related to Epidendrum paniculatum but differs in a few ways. Grow in pots in a coarse growing media and provide warm, humid conditions with adequate air circulation. Large plants make attractive specimens. Easy to grow.
Synonyms: None.
Epidendrum cinnabarinum - Vermilion Epidendrum
Epidendrum cinnabarinum
Common Name: Vermilion Epidendrum
Native to: Brazil. Epidendrum cinnabarinum is found growing as a terrestrial plant or lithophyte in northeastern Brazil.
Plant Size: Huge. The plants with flower stems grow to 72 inches (180 cm) tall.
Flower Size: 2.5 inches (6.25 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers are unusually large for a reed-stem Epidendrum. Flowers are borne on a simple or branched flower stem that produces many flowers that open up over an extended period of time.
Bloom Season: Spring
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: This is a huge, attractive plant with large, impressive flowers. Grow in a well-drained pot and use terrestrial orchid mix for the growing medium. Provide warmth and humidity and even moisture year-round.
Synonyms: None.
Common Name: Vermilion Epidendrum
Native to: Brazil. Epidendrum cinnabarinum is found growing as a terrestrial plant or lithophyte in northeastern Brazil.
Plant Size: Huge. The plants with flower stems grow to 72 inches (180 cm) tall.
Flower Size: 2.5 inches (6.25 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers are unusually large for a reed-stem Epidendrum. Flowers are borne on a simple or branched flower stem that produces many flowers that open up over an extended period of time.
Bloom Season: Spring
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: This is a huge, attractive plant with large, impressive flowers. Grow in a well-drained pot and use terrestrial orchid mix for the growing medium. Provide warmth and humidity and even moisture year-round.
Synonyms: None.
Basic Cattleya Orchid Flower Anatomy
Cattleya orchids and their relatives all have 3 petals and 3 sepals. The lip is a modified petal. The illustration below labels the different parts.
P = Petal
S = Sepal
L = Lip
Epidendrum chogoncolonchense - Cordillera Chogon-Colonche Epidendrum
Epidendrum chogoncolonchense
Common Name: Cordillera Chogon-Colonche Epidendrum
Native to: Ecuador. Epidendrum chogoncolonchense grows on trees at low elevation (200 meters).
Plant Size: Small. This is a miniature reed-stemmed species that has compressed, fleshy leaves and stems.
Flower Size: 1.25 inches (3 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers are produced in pairs on a short terminal inflorescence. Flowers are fragrant.
Bloom Season: Blooms anytime of the year.
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: Epidendrum chogoncolonchense is named for the Cordillera Chogon-Colonche mountain range in western Ecuador. Grow mounted on cork or tree fern and provide a warm, humid environment. This species is closely related to Epidendrum difforme and Epidendrum romanii.
Synonyms: None.
Common Name: Cordillera Chogon-Colonche Epidendrum
Native to: Ecuador. Epidendrum chogoncolonchense grows on trees at low elevation (200 meters).
Plant Size: Small. This is a miniature reed-stemmed species that has compressed, fleshy leaves and stems.
Flower Size: 1.25 inches (3 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers are produced in pairs on a short terminal inflorescence. Flowers are fragrant.
Bloom Season: Blooms anytime of the year.
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: Epidendrum chogoncolonchense is named for the Cordillera Chogon-Colonche mountain range in western Ecuador. Grow mounted on cork or tree fern and provide a warm, humid environment. This species is closely related to Epidendrum difforme and Epidendrum romanii.
Synonyms: None.
Epidendrum chlorops
Epidendrum chlorops
Native to: place
Plant Size: size
Flower Size: size
Flower Description: description
Bloom Season: season
Growing Temperature: temp
Additional Information: something interesting
Synonyms: Get names
Native to: place
Plant Size: size
Flower Size: size
Flower Description: description
Bloom Season: season
Growing Temperature: temp
Additional Information: something interesting
Synonyms: Get names
Epidendrum chlorinum - Greenish Epidendrum
Epidendrum chlorinum
Common Name: Greenish Epidendrum
Native to: Brazil. Epidendrum chlorinum is found growing on trees in the Brazilian states of Minas Gerais and Sao Paulo between 1000 and 1500 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Small
Flower Size: 0.5 inches (1.2 cm)
Flower Description: Flowers are small and greenish in color.
Bloom Season: Summer
Growing Temperature: Cool to Warm
Additional Information: Grow Epidendrum chlorinum mounted on small cork or tree fern plaques. It is adaptable and grows well under many temperature and cultural regimes.
Synonyms: Epidendrum chloranthum
Common Name: Greenish Epidendrum
Native to: Brazil. Epidendrum chlorinum is found growing on trees in the Brazilian states of Minas Gerais and Sao Paulo between 1000 and 1500 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Small
Flower Size: 0.5 inches (1.2 cm)
Flower Description: Flowers are small and greenish in color.
Bloom Season: Summer
Growing Temperature: Cool to Warm
Additional Information: Grow Epidendrum chlorinum mounted on small cork or tree fern plaques. It is adaptable and grows well under many temperature and cultural regimes.
Synonyms: Epidendrum chloranthum
Epidendrum chloe - Chloe's Epidendrum
Epidendrum chloe
Common Name: Chloe's Epidendrum
Native to: Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua. Epidendrum chloe prefers humid mountain forests and grows on moss-covered trees between 1000 and 1200 meters.
Plant Size: Medium. The leaves of Epidendrum chloe are grassy and thin
Flower Size: 0.5 inches (1.5 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers develop on a short stem that grows from the top of a recently matured cane. There are only a few flowers per growth.
Bloom Season: Late Winter to Spring
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: This species was first described to the scientific community back in 1856. Grow mounted on cork or tree fern plaques for best results. Provide warmth and humidity.
Synonyms: Epidendrum culmiforme
Common Name: Chloe's Epidendrum
Native to: Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua. Epidendrum chloe prefers humid mountain forests and grows on moss-covered trees between 1000 and 1200 meters.
Plant Size: Medium. The leaves of Epidendrum chloe are grassy and thin
Flower Size: 0.5 inches (1.5 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers develop on a short stem that grows from the top of a recently matured cane. There are only a few flowers per growth.
Bloom Season: Late Winter to Spring
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: This species was first described to the scientific community back in 1856. Grow mounted on cork or tree fern plaques for best results. Provide warmth and humidity.
Synonyms: Epidendrum culmiforme
Epidendrum cernuum - Nodding Epidendrum
Epidendrum cernuum
Common Name: Nodding Epidendrum
Native to: Columbia and Venezuela. Epidendrum cernuum grows on trees in warm, moist forests.
Plant Size: size
Flower Size: size
Flower Description: Flowers are produced on a short inflorescence that is produced on a maturing vegetive growth. Few to several flowers bloom on one stem.
Bloom Season: Fall
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: Grow Epidendrum cernuum mounted on cork or tree fern and provide warm, humid growing conditions with adequate fertility and air circulation.
Synonyms: None.
Common Name: Nodding Epidendrum
Native to: Columbia and Venezuela. Epidendrum cernuum grows on trees in warm, moist forests.
Plant Size: size
Flower Size: size
Flower Description: Flowers are produced on a short inflorescence that is produced on a maturing vegetive growth. Few to several flowers bloom on one stem.
Bloom Season: Fall
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: Grow Epidendrum cernuum mounted on cork or tree fern and provide warm, humid growing conditions with adequate fertility and air circulation.
Synonyms: None.
Epidendrum catillus
Epidendrum catillus
Native to: Columbia, Ecuador, Peru. Epidendrum catillus is found growing in Columbia's Western Cordellera as well as Ecuador's and Peru's wooded savannah regions. It grows on trees or as a terrestrial plant between 750 and 2500 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Medium. Epidendrum catillus is a reed-stem type and has fleshy canes that are clothed in leaves.
Flower Size: 1.25 inches (3 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers develop on a branched or unbranched flower stem that grows to 20 inches (50 cm) high. Several to many flowers are produced and the flowers open up over a long period of time.
Bloom Season: Year-Round
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: Epidendrum catillus is another one of several fine reed-stem species in this genus. The large plants make attractive specimens with time. Grow in pots with coarse open media and provide excellent drainage. Even water and fertilizer year-round are required.
Synonyms: Epidendrum vinosum
Native to: Columbia, Ecuador, Peru. Epidendrum catillus is found growing in Columbia's Western Cordellera as well as Ecuador's and Peru's wooded savannah regions. It grows on trees or as a terrestrial plant between 750 and 2500 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Medium. Epidendrum catillus is a reed-stem type and has fleshy canes that are clothed in leaves.
Flower Size: 1.25 inches (3 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers develop on a branched or unbranched flower stem that grows to 20 inches (50 cm) high. Several to many flowers are produced and the flowers open up over a long period of time.
Bloom Season: Year-Round
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: Epidendrum catillus is another one of several fine reed-stem species in this genus. The large plants make attractive specimens with time. Grow in pots with coarse open media and provide excellent drainage. Even water and fertilizer year-round are required.
Synonyms: Epidendrum vinosum
Epidendrum carolii - Carol's Epidendrum
Epidendrum carolii
Common Name: Carol's Epidendrum
Native to: Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama. Epidendrum carolii grows wild in the Mexican states of Jalisco and Oaxaca. Its primary habitat is moist oak forests between 500 and 1700 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Small. The fleshy stems have two or more sword-shaped green leaves.
Flower Size: 0.5 inches (1.75 cm)
Flower Description: The small flowers are produced on a terminal flower stem that grows to 8 inches (20 cm) in height. The flowers have a faint, pleasant scent.
Bloom Season: Spring to Fall
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: Epidendrum carolii is a compact species that can be grown successfully on cork or tree fern mounts. Provide heat and humidity along with adequate air circulation for best results. The small flowers have a charm of their own.
Synonyms: None.
Common Name: Carol's Epidendrum
Native to: Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama. Epidendrum carolii grows wild in the Mexican states of Jalisco and Oaxaca. Its primary habitat is moist oak forests between 500 and 1700 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Small. The fleshy stems have two or more sword-shaped green leaves.
Flower Size: 0.5 inches (1.75 cm)
Flower Description: The small flowers are produced on a terminal flower stem that grows to 8 inches (20 cm) in height. The flowers have a faint, pleasant scent.
Bloom Season: Spring to Fall
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: Epidendrum carolii is a compact species that can be grown successfully on cork or tree fern mounts. Provide heat and humidity along with adequate air circulation for best results. The small flowers have a charm of their own.
Synonyms: None.
Epidendrum cardiochilum - Heart-Shaped Lip Epidendrum
Epidendrum cardiochilum
Common Name: Heart-Shaped Lip Epidendrum
Native to: Mexico, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Epidendrum cardiochilum inhabits warm and cool, wet cloud forest habitats where it grows on trees. It is usually found between 500 and 1400 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Small. Epidendrum cardiochilum produces small pseudobulbs and has two or three long, tongue-shaped leaves.
Flower Size: 0.75 inches (2 cm)
Flower Description: Flowers are moderate in size and have a heart-shaped lip. The inflorescence develops as the growth develops and produces blooms in the winter. Only a few flowers are produced by each growth.
Bloom Season: Winter
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: This small Mexican and Central American species has small but attractive flowers and a compact habit. Grow mounted on cork or tree fern. It is adaptable but prefers humidity and constant moisture.
Synonyms: Epidendrum segoviense
Common Name: Heart-Shaped Lip Epidendrum
Native to: Mexico, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Epidendrum cardiochilum inhabits warm and cool, wet cloud forest habitats where it grows on trees. It is usually found between 500 and 1400 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Small. Epidendrum cardiochilum produces small pseudobulbs and has two or three long, tongue-shaped leaves.
Flower Size: 0.75 inches (2 cm)
Flower Description: Flowers are moderate in size and have a heart-shaped lip. The inflorescence develops as the growth develops and produces blooms in the winter. Only a few flowers are produced by each growth.
Bloom Season: Winter
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: This small Mexican and Central American species has small but attractive flowers and a compact habit. Grow mounted on cork or tree fern. It is adaptable but prefers humidity and constant moisture.
Synonyms: Epidendrum segoviense
Epidendrum carchiense - Carchi Epidendrum
Epidendrum carchiense
Common Name: Carchi Epidendrum
Native to: Columbia and Ecuador. Epidendrum carchiense grows on trees between 1300 and 2800 meters in elevation in wet mountain forests.
Plant Size: Medium. The stems are jointed, reed-like stems with many leaves and swollen internode segments.
Flower Size: 0.75 inches (2 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers bloom all at the same time and develop from the top of a mature pseudobulb. The flower stem is short.
Bloom Season: Fall
Growing Temperature: Cool to Warm
Additional Information: Epidendrum carchiense is named after an Ecuadoran state that is near the border with Columbia where the species is locally common. Grow mounted on cork or tree fern or in a slatted basket or well-drained pot with coarse growing media.
Synonyms: None
Common Name: Carchi Epidendrum
Native to: Columbia and Ecuador. Epidendrum carchiense grows on trees between 1300 and 2800 meters in elevation in wet mountain forests.
Plant Size: Medium. The stems are jointed, reed-like stems with many leaves and swollen internode segments.
Flower Size: 0.75 inches (2 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers bloom all at the same time and develop from the top of a mature pseudobulb. The flower stem is short.
Bloom Season: Fall
Growing Temperature: Cool to Warm
Additional Information: Epidendrum carchiense is named after an Ecuadoran state that is near the border with Columbia where the species is locally common. Grow mounted on cork or tree fern or in a slatted basket or well-drained pot with coarse growing media.
Synonyms: None
Epidendrum capricornu - Goat-Horned Epidendrum
Epidendrum capricornu
Common Name: Goat-Horned Epidendrum
Native to: Ecuador, Peru. Epidendrum capricornu grows on trees in mid-elevation wet tropical and mountainous forests.
Plant Size: Medium?
Flower Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)
Flower Description: Epidendrum capricornu produces many flowers on a flower stem that develops during the Fall.
Bloom Season: Fall
Growing Temperature: Cool to Warm
Additional Information: Grow this tree-dwelling species on a tree fern or cork mount with a little moss to retain moisture. Provide ample water and nutrition during periods of active growth. Many flowers are produced in the Fall.
Synonyms: None.
Common Name: Goat-Horned Epidendrum
Native to: Ecuador, Peru. Epidendrum capricornu grows on trees in mid-elevation wet tropical and mountainous forests.
Plant Size: Medium?
Flower Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)
Flower Description: Epidendrum capricornu produces many flowers on a flower stem that develops during the Fall.
Bloom Season: Fall
Growing Temperature: Cool to Warm
Additional Information: Grow this tree-dwelling species on a tree fern or cork mount with a little moss to retain moisture. Provide ample water and nutrition during periods of active growth. Many flowers are produced in the Fall.
Synonyms: None.
Epidendrum campestre - Savannah Epidendrum
Epidendrum campestre
Common Name: Savannah Epidendrum
Native to: Brazil. Epidendrum campestre is native to the Mantiqueira Mountains in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais. It grows on trees between 1000 and 1500 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Medium.
Flower Size: 1 inch (2.2 cm)
Flower Description: Flowers are produced during the summer.
Bloom Season: Summer
Growing Temperature: Cool to Warm (Adaptable)
Additional Information: This is another attractive member of the genus. It is adaptable and should be fairly easy for most hobbyists to grow successfully. Grow mounted on a small cork or tree fern mount and keep moist. Grow in a Cattleya orchid greenhouse.
Synonyms: Epidendrum blandum
Common Name: Savannah Epidendrum
Native to: Brazil. Epidendrum campestre is native to the Mantiqueira Mountains in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais. It grows on trees between 1000 and 1500 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Medium.
Flower Size: 1 inch (2.2 cm)
Flower Description: Flowers are produced during the summer.
Bloom Season: Summer
Growing Temperature: Cool to Warm (Adaptable)
Additional Information: This is another attractive member of the genus. It is adaptable and should be fairly easy for most hobbyists to grow successfully. Grow mounted on a small cork or tree fern mount and keep moist. Grow in a Cattleya orchid greenhouse.
Synonyms: Epidendrum blandum
Epidendrum campaccii
Epidendrum campaccii
Common Name: Campacci's Epidendrum
Native to: Brazil. Epidendrum campaccii grows in the Brazilian state of Sao Paulo. It grows on trees at approximately 700 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Small. The stems are upright and reed-like with several leaves.
Flower Size: 0.75 inches (2 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum campaccii have a strong, pleasant carnation scent. A short flower spike bears between five and eight flowers.
Bloom Season: Late Winter to Mid-fall
Growing Temperature: Cool to Warm
Additional Information: Epidendrum campaccii was named after Marco Antonio Campacci who discovered the first specimen. This is another reed-stem species. It is best grown mounted on wood, cork bark, or tree fern plaques. Keep moist but not soggy and provide typical Cattleya orchid growing conditions. Adaptable. It is not yet common in the orchid trade but the scented flowers are highly desirable.
Synonyms: None.
Common Name: Campacci's Epidendrum
Native to: Brazil. Epidendrum campaccii grows in the Brazilian state of Sao Paulo. It grows on trees at approximately 700 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Small. The stems are upright and reed-like with several leaves.
Flower Size: 0.75 inches (2 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum campaccii have a strong, pleasant carnation scent. A short flower spike bears between five and eight flowers.
Bloom Season: Late Winter to Mid-fall
Growing Temperature: Cool to Warm
Additional Information: Epidendrum campaccii was named after Marco Antonio Campacci who discovered the first specimen. This is another reed-stem species. It is best grown mounted on wood, cork bark, or tree fern plaques. Keep moist but not soggy and provide typical Cattleya orchid growing conditions. Adaptable. It is not yet common in the orchid trade but the scented flowers are highly desirable.
Synonyms: None.
Epidendrum calanthum
Epidendrum calanthum
Common Name: Beautiful Blooming Epidendrum
Native to: Bolivia, Columbia, Ecuador, Venezuela, Peru. This widespread species grows in a wide variety of habitats and is very adaptable to local conditions. Epidendrum calanthum grows on either trees or as a terrestrial plant in tropical mountain forest from 220 to 2200 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Medium to Large. The stems are reed-like and leafy.
Flower Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)
Flower Description: The colorful flowers bloom on an 8 inch (20 cm) tall stem that produces many flowers that open over a long period of time. Flower stems emerge from recently matured reed-stems.
Bloom Season: Spring to Summer
Growing Temperature: Cool
Additional Information: Epidendrum calanthum is widespread and adaptable and easy to cultivate if its needs are met. Provide high humidity and ample water with bright light. Grow in a pot with a course, free-draining growing media. There are many color forms available in the trade and they are worth seeking out for specialty growers.
Synonyms: Epidendrum caucae, Epidendrum chrysostomum, Epidendrum decipiens, Epidendrum filomenoi, Epidendrum huanucoense, Epidendrum ibaguense var. confluens, Epidendrum laetum, Epidendrum paytense, Epidendrum pristes, Epidendrum schomburgkii var. confluens
Native to: Bolivia, Columbia, Ecuador, Venezuela, Peru. This widespread species grows in a wide variety of habitats and is very adaptable to local conditions. Epidendrum calanthum grows on either trees or as a terrestrial plant in tropical mountain forest from 220 to 2200 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Medium to Large. The stems are reed-like and leafy.
Flower Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)
Flower Description: The colorful flowers bloom on an 8 inch (20 cm) tall stem that produces many flowers that open over a long period of time. Flower stems emerge from recently matured reed-stems.
Bloom Season: Spring to Summer
Growing Temperature: Cool
Additional Information: Epidendrum calanthum is widespread and adaptable and easy to cultivate if its needs are met. Provide high humidity and ample water with bright light. Grow in a pot with a course, free-draining growing media. There are many color forms available in the trade and they are worth seeking out for specialty growers.
Synonyms: Epidendrum caucae, Epidendrum chrysostomum, Epidendrum decipiens, Epidendrum filomenoi, Epidendrum huanucoense, Epidendrum ibaguense var. confluens, Epidendrum laetum, Epidendrum paytense, Epidendrum pristes, Epidendrum schomburgkii var. confluens
Epidendrum bractiacuminatum - Gradually-Tapering-Floral-Bract Epidendrum
Epidendrum bractiacuminatum
Common Name: Gradually-Tapering-Floral-Bract Epidendrum
Native to: Ecuador. Epidendrum bractiacuminatum is another large-growing terrestrial orchid native to cool cloud forests. It grows between 2100 and 2200 meters in elevation and its habitat is partially protected by the Guacamayo Cloudforest Reserve.
Plant Size: Large. The tall canes are erect and have many leaves spaced along the length of the stem.
Flower Size: size
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum bractiacuminatum vary in color. Many flowers are produced on a flower spike that emerges from the top of maturing reed-stem growths. The flowers open up over a long period extending the flower show for many months.
Bloom Season: Late Spring to Fall
Growing Temperature: Cool
Additional Information: Epidendrum bractiacuminatum is closely related to Epidendrum macrostachyum but differs in minor floral details. Grow in cool conditions in a well-drained pot with quality terrestrial orchid mix. Cool, humid conditions and even moisture practically guarantee success.
Synonyms: None.
Common Name: Gradually-Tapering-Floral-Bract Epidendrum
Native to: Ecuador. Epidendrum bractiacuminatum is another large-growing terrestrial orchid native to cool cloud forests. It grows between 2100 and 2200 meters in elevation and its habitat is partially protected by the Guacamayo Cloudforest Reserve.
Plant Size: Large. The tall canes are erect and have many leaves spaced along the length of the stem.
Flower Size: size
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum bractiacuminatum vary in color. Many flowers are produced on a flower spike that emerges from the top of maturing reed-stem growths. The flowers open up over a long period extending the flower show for many months.
Bloom Season: Late Spring to Fall
Growing Temperature: Cool
Additional Information: Epidendrum bractiacuminatum is closely related to Epidendrum macrostachyum but differs in minor floral details. Grow in cool conditions in a well-drained pot with quality terrestrial orchid mix. Cool, humid conditions and even moisture practically guarantee success.
Synonyms: None.
Epidendrum bracteolatum - Small-Bracted Epidendrum
Epidendrum bracteolatum
Common Name: Small-Bracted Epidendrum
Native to: Ecuador, Peru. Epidendrum bracteolatum grows on trees in low-elevation dry forests.
Plant Size: Medium. Epidendrum bracteolatum has jointed, elongated, plump pseudobulb that have two or three green leaves.
Flower Size: 1.25 inches (3 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum bracteolatum are white and bloom on a 16 inch (40 cm) long flower stem that develops at the tip of mature pseudobulbs. The flower stem has many flowers that are clustered near the top. Flowers emit a pleasant fragrance during the evening.
Bloom Season: Fall to Spring
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: This species is an interesting mixture between a pseudobulb-like Encyclia and a tall reed-stem Epidendrum. Grow mounted on cork bark, tree fern, or drift wood. As an alternative to mounted culture, this species may also be grown in a pot with a coarse, free-draining media. Provide ample water and fertilizer during periods of active growth and let the plant dry slightly during the winter when temperatures are cooler. A warm, bright spot in the Cattleya greenhouse is a good location for this plant.
Synonyms: Epidendrum collare, Epidendrum leucopyramis
Common Name: Small-Bracted Epidendrum
Native to: Ecuador, Peru. Epidendrum bracteolatum grows on trees in low-elevation dry forests.
Plant Size: Medium. Epidendrum bracteolatum has jointed, elongated, plump pseudobulb that have two or three green leaves.
Flower Size: 1.25 inches (3 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum bracteolatum are white and bloom on a 16 inch (40 cm) long flower stem that develops at the tip of mature pseudobulbs. The flower stem has many flowers that are clustered near the top. Flowers emit a pleasant fragrance during the evening.
Bloom Season: Fall to Spring
Growing Temperature: Warm
Additional Information: This species is an interesting mixture between a pseudobulb-like Encyclia and a tall reed-stem Epidendrum. Grow mounted on cork bark, tree fern, or drift wood. As an alternative to mounted culture, this species may also be grown in a pot with a coarse, free-draining media. Provide ample water and fertilizer during periods of active growth and let the plant dry slightly during the winter when temperatures are cooler. A warm, bright spot in the Cattleya greenhouse is a good location for this plant.
Synonyms: Epidendrum collare, Epidendrum leucopyramis
Epidendrum brachycorymbosum - Short Corymb Epidendrum
Epidendrum brachycorymbosum
Common Name: Short Corymb Epidendrum
Native to: Ecuador. Epidendrum brachycorymbosum is native to the Andes mountains where it is found growing as a terrestrial plant on east-facing slopes between 1500 and 1650 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Medium. The smallish plants have fleshy cane-like stems that and covered with about nine leaves which are concentrated on the upper two-thirds of the stem.
Flower Size: Small. 0.5 inches (1.5 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum brachycorymbosum are produced on a short terminal inflorescence and produce up to 30 flowers. No fragrance.
Bloom Season: Winter to Summer
Growing Temperature: Cool to Warm
Additional Information: This species was recently described in the early part of the 21 st century. Grow in a well-drained pot with fresh terrestrial orchid mix and keep evenly moist but not soggy. Epidendrum brachycorymbosum can be satisfactorily grown with Cattleya orchids.
Synonyms: None
Common Name: Short Corymb Epidendrum
Native to: Ecuador. Epidendrum brachycorymbosum is native to the Andes mountains where it is found growing as a terrestrial plant on east-facing slopes between 1500 and 1650 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Medium. The smallish plants have fleshy cane-like stems that and covered with about nine leaves which are concentrated on the upper two-thirds of the stem.
Flower Size: Small. 0.5 inches (1.5 cm)
Flower Description: The flowers of Epidendrum brachycorymbosum are produced on a short terminal inflorescence and produce up to 30 flowers. No fragrance.
Bloom Season: Winter to Summer
Growing Temperature: Cool to Warm
Additional Information: This species was recently described in the early part of the 21 st century. Grow in a well-drained pot with fresh terrestrial orchid mix and keep evenly moist but not soggy. Epidendrum brachycorymbosum can be satisfactorily grown with Cattleya orchids.
Synonyms: None
Epidendrum boricuarum
Epidendrum boricuarum
Native to: Ecuador. Epidendrum boricuarum grows as a terrestrial orchid between 1500 and 2850 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Medium?
Flower Size: size
Flower Description: description
Bloom Season: Spring
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: Epidendrum boricuarum is a terrestrial orchid that need to grow in a well-drained pot. Plant in a high-quality terrestrial orchid mix. Grow under standard Cattleya conditions. Tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Synonyms: None.
Native to: Ecuador. Epidendrum boricuarum grows as a terrestrial orchid between 1500 and 2850 meters in elevation.
Plant Size: Medium?
Flower Size: size
Flower Description: description
Bloom Season: Spring
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool
Additional Information: Epidendrum boricuarum is a terrestrial orchid that need to grow in a well-drained pot. Plant in a high-quality terrestrial orchid mix. Grow under standard Cattleya conditions. Tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Synonyms: None.
Epidendrum blepharoclinium - Funk's Epidendrum
Epidendrum blepharoclinium
Common Name: Funk's Epidendrum
Native to: Bolivia, Columbia, Ecuador, and Peru. Epidendrum blepharoclinium is found growing in moist mountainous cloud forests on steep, exposed slopes. The plants grow as terrestrial orchids.
Plant Size: Medium. Epidendrum blepharoclinium has pseudobulbs with several leaves.
Flower Size: 2.5 inches (6 cm)
Flower Description: Flowers are large and conspicuous and bloom on a 24 inch (60 cm) long, erect flower spike. Each mature growth produces few to many flowers.
Bloom Season: Anytime of the year.
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool (Adaptable)
Additional Information: This interesting species grows well in pots that have terrestrial orchid mix. Keep on the moist side but avoid over-watering. This species grows well in a Cattleya greenhouse but is adaptable to many different growing regiments.
Synonyms: Epidendrum brachycladium, Epidendrum brachycladium var. crassipes, Epidendrum crassipes, Epidendrum crassipes, Epidendrum dolabrilobum, Epidendrum funckii, Epidendrum pachypodum
Common Name: Funk's Epidendrum
Native to: Bolivia, Columbia, Ecuador, and Peru. Epidendrum blepharoclinium is found growing in moist mountainous cloud forests on steep, exposed slopes. The plants grow as terrestrial orchids.
Plant Size: Medium. Epidendrum blepharoclinium has pseudobulbs with several leaves.
Flower Size: 2.5 inches (6 cm)
Flower Description: Flowers are large and conspicuous and bloom on a 24 inch (60 cm) long, erect flower spike. Each mature growth produces few to many flowers.
Bloom Season: Anytime of the year.
Growing Temperature: Warm to Cool (Adaptable)
Additional Information: This interesting species grows well in pots that have terrestrial orchid mix. Keep on the moist side but avoid over-watering. This species grows well in a Cattleya greenhouse but is adaptable to many different growing regiments.
Synonyms: Epidendrum brachycladium, Epidendrum brachycladium var. crassipes, Epidendrum crassipes, Epidendrum crassipes, Epidendrum dolabrilobum, Epidendrum funckii, Epidendrum pachypodum
Orchid Growing Articles
- Cattleya Orchid Care Sheet - Basic orchid growing information
- Mounting orchids on cork bark
- Basic Cattleya Flower Anatomy - Learn about the different flower parts that make up a cattleya blossom.
Cattleya Natural Hybrids
Natural Hybrids
Unlike most flower species, Cattleya orchids frequently hybridize in their native habitat. Below is a list of many known natural hybrids.
Unlike most flower species, Cattleya orchids frequently hybridize in their native habitat. Below is a list of many known natural hybrids.
- Cattleya × brasiliensis Klinge (1899) = (Cattleya bicolor × Cattleya harrisoniana)
- Cattleya × brymeriana Rchb.f. (1883) = (Cattleya violacea × Cattleya wallisii)
- Cattleya × calimaniana Campacci (2007) = (Cattleya harrisoniana × Cattleya schofieldiana)
- Cattleya × calimaniorum Chiron & V.P.Castro (2005) = (Cattleya schilleriana × Cattleya tigrina)
- Cattleya × colnagiana L.C.Menezes (1996)
- Cattleya × dayana Rolfe (1902) = (Cattleya forbesii × Cattleya guttata)
- Cattleya × dolosa Rchb.f. (1874) = (Cattleya loddigesii × Cattleya walkeriana)
- Cattleya × dukeana Rchb.f. (1887) = (Cattleya bicolor × Cattleya guttata)
- Cattleya × duveenii Pabst & A.Ferreira (1977) = (Cattleya guttata × Cattleya harrisoniana)
- Cattleya × elegans C.Morren (1848) = (Cattleya purpurata × Cattleya tigrina)
- Cattleya × frankeana Rolfe (1907) = (Cattleya schilleriana × Cattleya velutina)
- Cattleya × gaezeriana Campacci (2007) = (Cattleya amethystoglossa × Cattleya bicolor)
- Cattleya × gransabanensis Senghas (1999) = (Cattleya jenmanii × Cattleya lawrenceana)
- Cattleya × hummeliana L.C.Menezes & V.P.Castro (2007) = (Cattleya lawrenceana × Cattleya violacea)
- Cattleya × hybrida H.J.Veitch (1863) = (Cattleya guttata × Cattleya loddigesii)
- Cattleya × imperator Rolfe (1897) = (Cattleya granulosa × Cattleya labiata)
- Cattleya × intricata Rchb.f. (1884) = (Cattleya intermedia × Cattleya tigrina)
- Cattleya × isabella Rchb.f. (1859) = (Cattleya forbesii × Cattleya intermedia)
- Cattleya × itatiayae Porto (1918)
- Cattleya × joaquiniana F.E.L.Miranda (1999) = (Cattleya bicolor × Cattleya walkeriana)
- Cattleya × kautskyi Pabst (1975) = (Cattleya harrisoniana × Cattleya warneri)
- Cattleya × labendziana L.C.Menezes & Braem4 (2006) = (Cattleya nobilior × Cattleya violacea)
- Cattleya × lucieniana Rchb.f. (1885) = (Cattleya forbesii × Cattleya granulosa)
- Cattleya × measuresii Rchb.f. (1886) = (Cattleya aclandiae × Cattleya walkeriana)
- Cattleya × mixta L.C.Menezes (1992) = (Cattleya guttata × Cattleya schofieldiana)
- Cattleya × moduloi L.C.Menezes (1994) = (Cattleya schofieldiana × Cattleya warneri)
- Cattleya × patrocinii St.-Lég. (1890) = (Cattleya guttata × Cattleya warneri)
- Cattleya × picturata Rchb.f. (1877) = (Cattleya guttata × Cattleya intermedia)
- Cattleya × pittiana O'Brien ex Cogn. (1896) = (Cattleya schilleriana × Cattleya harrisoniana)
- Cattleya × resplendens Rchb.f. (1885) = (Cattleya granulosa × Cattleya schilleriana)
- Cattleya × schunkiana Campacci (2007) = (Cattleya porphyroglossa × Cattleya warneri)
- Cattleya × tenuata V.P.Castro & Campacci ex Braem (1995) = (Cattleya elongata × Cattleya tenuis)
- Cattleya × varelae V.P.Castro & Cath. (2004)
- Cattleya × venosa Rolfe (1894) = (Cattleya forbesii × Cattleya harrisoniana)
- Cattleya × victoria-regina auct. (1892) = (Cattleya guttata × Cattleya labiata)
- Cattleya × zayrae V.P.Castro & Cath. (2004) = (Cattleya amethystoglossa × Cattleya elongata)
Growing Cattleya Orchids
Cattleya Orchid Care Sheet
While Cattleya orchid hybrids are usually the species thought of as “orchids” by most people, not many people know that there are 50 species that grow wild in Central and South America. Most species grow high up in the canopy of trees in moist tropical forests at low to medium elevations. Trees covered in Cattleya orchids in full-bloom are quite a sight to see.
Cattleyas are known for their large, showy lip that the plant uses to attract and guide pollinating insects to the pollen.
Cattleya orchids are divided into two classes based on the number of leaves that each growth has. Unifoliate Cattleya species have only one leaf while bifoliate species have two (or more) leaves per pseudobulb. Cattleyas are very closely related to Epidendrums and Laelias and readily hybridize with them to create beautiful new genetic combinations.
Temperature: Most Cattleya orchids are found growing between sea level and 6000 feet in elevation. Day temperatures between 75° F and 85° F degrees and night temperatures between 55° F and 65° F degrees are ideal. Plants in cultivation prefer a ten to 15 degree difference between day and night temperatures.
Air Circulation:
Cattleyas (along with most other tropical orchids) prefer a moderate amount of air circulation. Many growers use fans to generate a gentle breeze. Good air circulation reduces fungal disease problems, too.
Humidity:
Cattleyas prefer 50-60% humidity. Spray the plants with a spray bottle in the morning or place the plants on a try that is filled with gravel and covered with water. This method is useful growers who have a few plants sitting on a windowsill.
Light:
Cattleyas prefer strong, indirect light or dappled light. In the house, grow them in a south or west facing window with a sheer curtain to filter the light to avoid burning the leaves. Fifty to 60 percent shade cloth is adequate for greenhouses.
Potting:
Cattleyas only need to be repotted when they outgrow their pots or the potting media begins to break down. Repot plants when new growths have grown between one and three inches tall. There are many suitable orchid mixes available, but most growers prefer a mix of fir bark, hardwood charcoal and perlite. Mature plants need coarse bark while seedlings need fine bark. Clay or plastic pots are suitable and clear plastic pots have become quite popular in recent years because they allow the grower to see how the roots are growing.
Water:
When fir bark growing mix dries out, it becomes lighter in color and it is time to water. Cattleyas prefer to be throughly watered and then let to dry out. Too much water causes root rot and other disease problems. When in doubt, wait another day to water.
Fertilizer:
Most growers fertilize their orchids every two weeks with commercial, water-soluable orchid fertilizer every two weeks. Water plants that are really dry prior to fertilizing to prevent root burn. Periodically leach the pots with copious amounts of clear water.
_pl__8377_(1911).jpg)
While Cattleya orchid hybrids are usually the species thought of as “orchids” by most people, not many people know that there are 50 species that grow wild in Central and South America. Most species grow high up in the canopy of trees in moist tropical forests at low to medium elevations. Trees covered in Cattleya orchids in full-bloom are quite a sight to see.
Cattleyas are known for their large, showy lip that the plant uses to attract and guide pollinating insects to the pollen.
Cattleya orchids are divided into two classes based on the number of leaves that each growth has. Unifoliate Cattleya species have only one leaf while bifoliate species have two (or more) leaves per pseudobulb. Cattleyas are very closely related to Epidendrums and Laelias and readily hybridize with them to create beautiful new genetic combinations.
Temperature: Most Cattleya orchids are found growing between sea level and 6000 feet in elevation. Day temperatures between 75° F and 85° F degrees and night temperatures between 55° F and 65° F degrees are ideal. Plants in cultivation prefer a ten to 15 degree difference between day and night temperatures.
Air Circulation:
Cattleyas (along with most other tropical orchids) prefer a moderate amount of air circulation. Many growers use fans to generate a gentle breeze. Good air circulation reduces fungal disease problems, too.
Humidity:
Cattleyas prefer 50-60% humidity. Spray the plants with a spray bottle in the morning or place the plants on a try that is filled with gravel and covered with water. This method is useful growers who have a few plants sitting on a windowsill.
Light:
Cattleyas prefer strong, indirect light or dappled light. In the house, grow them in a south or west facing window with a sheer curtain to filter the light to avoid burning the leaves. Fifty to 60 percent shade cloth is adequate for greenhouses.
Potting:
Cattleyas only need to be repotted when they outgrow their pots or the potting media begins to break down. Repot plants when new growths have grown between one and three inches tall. There are many suitable orchid mixes available, but most growers prefer a mix of fir bark, hardwood charcoal and perlite. Mature plants need coarse bark while seedlings need fine bark. Clay or plastic pots are suitable and clear plastic pots have become quite popular in recent years because they allow the grower to see how the roots are growing.
Water:
When fir bark growing mix dries out, it becomes lighter in color and it is time to water. Cattleyas prefer to be throughly watered and then let to dry out. Too much water causes root rot and other disease problems. When in doubt, wait another day to water.
Fertilizer:
Most growers fertilize their orchids every two weeks with commercial, water-soluable orchid fertilizer every two weeks. Water plants that are really dry prior to fertilizing to prevent root burn. Periodically leach the pots with copious amounts of clear water.
_pl__8377_(1911).jpg)
Cattleya rex from Curtis Botanical Magazine
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