Leopard Orchid (Ansellia africana)
Epidendroideae Ansellia Leopard Orchid Ansellia africana (1844) Botanical Description The only species in its genus. This massive “Trash Basket” orchid creates an upward-pointing root structure to catch falling leaves for nutrients. The yellow flowers are heavily blotted with dark maroon “leopard” spots. Hardiness & Conservation Hardy Species Status: Least Concern • Regulation: Appendix II Scientific […]
Desert Orchid (Eulophia petersii)
Epidendroideae Eulophia Desert Orchid Eulophia petersii (1848) Botanical Description One of the most “succulent” orchids in the world. It features thick, serrated leaves and rock-hard pseudobulbs that allow it to survive in arid, desert-like conditions where other orchids would perish. Hardiness & Conservation Hardy Species Status: Least Concern • Regulation: Appendix II Scientific Classification Subfamily […]
Beautiful Boat Orchid (Cymbidium amabile)
Epidendroideae Cymbidium Beautiful Boat Orchid Cymbidium amabile (1852) Botanical Description A robust orchid featuring long, leathery, strap-like leaves and tall, arching spikes of fragrant flowers. It is often found growing as an epiphyte in lowland forests and is valued for its heat tolerance compared to Himalayan species. Hardiness & Conservation Hardy Species Status: Least Concern […]
Expansive Catasetum (Catasetum expansum)
Epidendroideae 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 […]
Cowhorn Orchid, Cigar Orchid (Cyrtopodium punctatum)
Epidendroideae Cyrtopodium Cowhorn Orchid, Cigar Orchid Cyrtopodium punctatum (1759) Botanical Description A massive terrestrial or lithophytic orchid with large, horn-shaped pseudobulbs. It produces spectacular, large-branching yellow and brown inflorescences that can carry hundreds of waxy blooms. Hardiness & Conservation Hardy Species Status: Least Concern • Regulation: Appendix II Scientific Classification Subfamily Epidendroideae Tribe Cymbidieae Subtribe […]