Epidendroideae
Catasetum
Catasetum
Expansive Catasetum
Catasetum expansum (1824)
Botanical Description
Famous for its “explosive” pollination mechanism; the male flowers have triggers that, when touched by a bee, physically launch the pollen sacs onto the insect. It is a deciduous orchid that drops its leaves during a strict winter rest.
Hardiness & Conservation
Hardy Species
Status: Least Concern • Regulation: Appendix II
Scientific Classification
| Subfamily | Epidendroideae |
| Tribe | Cymbidieae |
| Subtribe | Catasetinae |
| Genus | Catasetum |
Growth & Care
| 📍 Origin | Ecuador |
| 📅 Season | Summer |
| 👃 Fragrance | Yes; Turpentine/Rye |
| 🔗 Similar | C. pileatum, C. macrocarpum |