Orchid Digest

Cynorkis lowiana

Sat, 04 Apr 2026 18:33:06 GMT

Cynorkis lowiana

Cynorkis lowiana is found in eastern Madagascar in humid evergreen forests on shady trunks or moss-covered rocks at elevations of 200 to 1,200 meters (656 to 3,937 feet) as a small-sized, hot- to cool-growing epiphyte or lithophyte that blooms at most any time of the year.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots)
Grower: Marni Turkel/Mostly Species Orchids (www.marniturkel.com/mostlyspecies.html)
Info: Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia (www.orchidspecies.com)

Dryadella zebrina

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 17:47:46 GMT

Dryadella zebrina

Dryadella zebrina is found in Brazil, Peru, and Bolivia in damp forests, often with mist and fog late in the day and with a dry season in the late spring till fall at elevations of 1,500 to 3,400 meters (4,921 to 11,155 feet) as a miniature-sized, cool- to cold-growing epiphyte that blooms in the spring through fall. This species will grow in a cool, humid, semi-shaded situation with plenty of water and fertilizer in a fibrous, well-drained medium.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots)
Grower: Andy’s Orchids (https://andysorchids.com/)
Info: Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia (www.orchidspecies.com)

Clowesia rosea

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 23:03:13 GMT

Clowesia rosea

Clowesia rosea is known to occur in southwestern Mexico, growing on trees in seasonally dry oak or tropical deciduous forests at 500 to 1,300 meters (1,650 to 4,250 feet. These plants, while very similar vegetatively to Catasetum, have bisexual flowers instead of the male or female blossoms normally found in Catasetum species. The flowers are fragrant and bloom in the autumn. Because of the pendent flower spike, plants may be more easily managed if grown hanging. Plants should be allowed to dry out after the leaves drop in autumn, watering only enough to keep the pseudobulbs from shriveling. Eliminate fertilizer during the rest period.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots)
Grower: Sunset Valley Orchids (https://www.sunsetvalleyorchids.com/)
Info: Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia (www.orchidspecies.com)

Dendrobium sotoanum

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 04:56:38 GMT

Dendrobium sotoanum

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Masdevallia trifurcata

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 04:28:03 GMT

Masdevallia trifurcata

Masdevallia trifurcata is endemic to Ecuador at about 1,500 meters (4,900 feet). Must be repotted every year in late winter or early spring. Water and fertilizer should be reduced somewhat in winter, but they should not be allowed to dry out completely.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: Denver Botanic Gardens
Information: Charles Baker culture sheet www.orchidculture.com

Dendrobium lituiflorum

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 05:38:14 GMT

Dendrobium lituiflorum

Dendrobium lituiflorum habitat includes northeastern India, Burma, northern Thailand, Laos, and southwestern China. Plants often densely cover treetops at 400 to 1,700 meters (1,300 to 5, 600 feet). Inflorescences arise from nearly every node along the entire length of leafless pseudobulbs. Plants are free-flowering, and blossoms are fragrant and last about two weeks. Plants bloom in late winter and spring.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: Mary Gerritsen
Information: Charles Baker culture sheet www.orchidculture.com

Angraecum sesquipedale

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 03:52:25 GMT

Angraecum sesquipedale

This orchid is found in the hot lowlands along almost the entire east coast of Madagascar. The Plants grow on the trunks of trees in light shade or diffused light at the edge of woods, usually at less than 100 meters (350 feet). They are always found in locations where there is plenty of air movement and are found most often on sloping tree trunks and crotches with roots creeping over the bark and then dangling in the air, sometimes for several feet (meters). The plants grow in coastal areas with heavy annual rainfall that is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with no pronounced dry season. Angraecum sesquipedale is distinctive in that plants may start blooming when only 6-8 in. (15-20 cm) tall. Plants bloom from early winter into spring.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: William Baumgartl
Information: Charles Baker culture sheet www.orchidculture.com

Bulbophyllum championii

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 00:24:51 GMT

Bulbophyllum championii

Bulbophyllum championii is endemic to Papua New Guinea as a small-sized, cool-growing epiphyte. The habitat and flowering time in the wild is unknown.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: Brookside Orchids
Info: Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia www.orchidspecies.com

Bulbophyllum ambrosia

Sat, 28 Feb 2026 02:32:50 GMT

Bulbophyllum ambrosia

Bulbophyllum ambrosia occurs in China and Vietnam as an epiphyte or lithophyte where it grows in mossy, primary and secondary, evergreen and semideciduous, broad-leaved, mixed, and coniferous forests, which are growing on weathered limestone and in mountain forests as well, at 500 to 1,300 meters (1,650-4,250 feet). It blooms from late winter into spring.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: Brookside Orchids
Information: Charles Baker culture sheet www.orchidculture.com

Masdevallia striatella

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 02:36:59 GMT

Masdevallia striatella

Masdevallia striatella is found in Costa Rica, Panamá, and Venezuela in lower montane cloud forests at 1.000 to 2400 meters (3,300 to 6,550 feet) and blooms in the fall and early winter. This species grows well in cultivation, often producing flowers in profusion
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: Dug Kubo
Information: Charles Baker culture sheet www.orchidculture.com

Coelogyne calcicola

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 20:47:48 GMT

Coelogyne calcicola

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Coelogyne fusca (syn. Otochilus fuscus)

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 03:39:09 GMT

Coelogyne fusca (syn. Otochilus fuscus)

Coelogyne fusca (syn. Otochilus fuscus) is found in China, Assam, eastern Himalayas, Nepal, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam on subtropical jungle slopes on old tree trunks at elevations of 780 to 2,500 meters (2,559 to 8,202 feet) as a small-sized, warm to cold growing epiphyte that blooms in the fall to spring with fragrant flowers. It is best grown in a well-draining medium in a hanging basket.
Photographer: Lourens Grobler of Afri Orchids https://afriorchids.co.za/
Info: Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia www.orchidspecies.com

Specklinia tribuloides

Sun, 15 Feb 2026 01:04:21 GMT

Specklinia tribuloides

Specklinia tribuloides is found in Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and the West Indies at 600 to 4250 feet (180 to 1,300 meters. It grows epiphytically in dense, damp forests and blooms normally in spring and summer, but it may bloom in any season. Water and fertilizer should be reduced in winter but not allowed to dry out. It is best grown in small pots or baskets in an open, fast-draining medium.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: Mary Gerritsen
Info: Charles Baker culture sheet www.orchidculture.com

Bulbophyllum comosum

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 05:12:05 GMT

Bulbophyllum comosum

Bulbophyllum comosum is found from Myanmar to Thailand at elevations of 1,850 to 2,000 meters (6,070 to 6,562 feet) as a small-sized, cool-growing epiphyte. It is deciduous, and the leaves fall just before blooming, which occurs in the winter with fragrant (cinnamon) flowers.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: John Leathers
Info: Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia www.orchidspecies.com

Dresslerella lasiocampa

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 01:22:47 GMT

Dresslerella lasiocampa

Dresslerella is a genus that has 14 species accepted according to the Kew Plants of the World Online. Dresslerella lasiocampa is endemic to Ecuador at elevations of 1,500 to 1,800 meters (4,921 to 5,906 feet) as a miniature-sized, cool-growing epiphyte that blooms in the spring. It grows on the trunks of old trees with full exposure to the sun. This is possibly the most widely cultivated species in the genus. Grow mounted with Sphagnum moss around the roots. Keep moist, well-drained, but not wet.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: John Leathers
Info: “A Compendium of Miniature Orchid Species: by Parsons & Gerritsen, p. 784

Lepanthes felis

Sun, 01 Feb 2026 02:19:43 GMT

Lepanthes felis

Lepanthes felis is endemic to Colombia in cloud forests at elevations of 1,900 to 2,500 meters (6,234 to 8,202 feet) as a miniature-sized, cool- to cold-growing epiphyte that blooms in the late spring and summer. This species needs high humidity, constant watering, and fertilizer. Lepanthes felis readily produces keikis on the inflorescence.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: Doug Kubo and Ron Parsons
Info: Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia www.orchidspecies.com

Maxillaria pseudoneglecta

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 04:49:53 GMT

Maxillaria pseudoneglecta

Maxillaria pseudoneglecta is found in Costa Rica and western Panama in premontane and montane forests at elevations above 900 meters (2,953 feet) as a small-sized, warm- to cool-growing epiphyte that blooms in the late spring through fall.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: Andy’s Orchids (andysorchids.com)

Info: Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia www.orchidspecies.com

Dendrobium rigidum

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 06:03:22 GMT

Dendrobium rigidum

Dendrobium rigidum is found in Australia and New Guinea. Plants usually grow on mangroves in swampy coastal lowlands in New Guinea and commonly grow in mangrove swamps but are also found on trees along creeks and on rock faces and ironbark trees in low mountains and dry savannas, sometimes considerably inland from the coast in Australia. They grow from sea level to 2,300 feet (0 to 700 meters). It blooms sporadically during the year and usually blooms several times, with the main flowering in spring. It is a very slow-growing species. It is best grown mounted, but it can be in a shallow bulb pan or hanging basket. Do not use sphagnum moss. Air movement is critical. Repot in the spring.

Photo: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: John Snyder
Info: Charles Baker culture sheet www.orchidculture.com

Coelogyne usitana

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 19:47:40 GMT

Coelogyne usitana

Coelogyne usitana is endemic to the Philippines at elevations around 800 meters (2,625 feet) as a small- to medium-sized, hot to warm growing epiphyte or lithophyte that blooms at any time of the year but mostly from spring to summer. It has received 15 AOS awards, including an FCC.
Photo: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: Brookside Orchids and Cindy Hill
Info: Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia www.orchidspecies.com

Platystele repens

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 07:05:07 GMT

Platystele repens

Platystele repens 'Joan' CCE/AOS is found in Belize and Guatemala in lowland forests at elevations of 300 to 1,000 meters (984 to 3,281 feet) as a miniature-sized, hot- to warm-growing epiphyte that blooms in the summer and fall. It should be placed in small pots and kept moist with steady watering throughout the year.
Photo: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: Mary Gerritsen
Info: Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia www.orchidspecies.com

Dendrobium annae

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 03:21:06 GMT

Dendrobium annae

Dendrobium annae is found from Sumatra to Java, a medium- to giant-sized, hot- to warm-growing epiphyte blooms in the fall with short-lived flowers. Use a quick-draining medium. Let it get slightly dry in the winter, but not a complete winter rest.

Photo: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: Hanging Gardens
Info: Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia www.orchidspecies.com

Aerides magnifica

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 00:48:14 GMT

Aerides magnifica

Aerides magnifica is endemic to the Philippines at elevations up to 300 meters as a medium-sized, hot-growing epiphyte that blooms in the late summer and early fall with sweetly scented flowers. Provide it with bright, indirect light (near full sun is tolerated), warm temperatures, high humidity, and excellent air movement.

Photo: Ron Parsons
Grower: Brookside Orchids
Info: Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia www.orchidspecies.com

Cattleya labiata

Sun, 11 Jan 2026 18:21:04 GMT

Cattleya labiata

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Laelia anceps

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 05:11:11 GMT

Laelia anceps

Laelia anceps is found in Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico in coffee plantations, pastures, oak and oak/pine forests with a solitary leaf in tall, scattered oaks, or on rocks below them, or in pastures and coffee plantations, often in full sunlight, at elevations of 500 to 1,500 meters (1,640 to 4,921 feet). It blooms from autumn to spring with vanilla-scented, long-lasting flowered inflorescence
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: Yunor Peralta
Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia www.orchidspecies.com

Caladenia alata

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 04:20:59 GMT

Caladenia alata

Caladenia alata is native to New South Wales, New Zealand North, Queensland, Tasmania, and Victoria as a terrestrial in forest, coastal scrub, and heathlands at elevations of sea level to 250 meters (820 feet). It is a miniature-sized plant that blooms in the spring with short-lived flowers.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia www.orchidspecies.com

Dendrobium moorei

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 06:14:39 GMT

Dendrobium moorei

Dendrobium moorei is endemic to Australia. It is found on rocks, tree ferns, scrub, figs, and palms, as well as in the soil. They are most often found low on trees where light is relatively high. Although plants are more common above 1000 feet (300 meters), some are reported as low as 100 feet (30 meters). Collectors indicate that the best plants grow on tree ferns. A well-grown plant is usually in bloom. Water and fertilizer should be reduced, but never allow the plants to remain completely dry for long periods.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: Michael Matthews
Info: Charles Baker culture sheet www.orchidculture.com

Dendrobium leporinum

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 03:17:33 GMT

Dendrobium leporinum

Dendrobium leporinum is found in the Moluccas and western New Guinea. No habitat elevation is available.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: Randy Peterson
Info: Charles Baker culture sheet www.orchidculture.com

Dendrobium lasianthera

Sun, 07 Dec 2025 23:51:26 GMT

Dendrobium lasianthera

Dendrobium lasianthera is endemic to New Guinea and grows epiphytically on tall trees below 100 meters (330 feet) in very humid habitats near rivers, streams, and in swamp forests. In nature, some plants are nearly always in bloom. Repot anytime new roots are growing. This species has been awarded 21 times by the AOS with two FCCs and the majority of the rest AMs. It has been used frequently in hybridizing with 276 F1 offspring and 1,596 progeny.

Photographer: Eric Hunt https://www.flickr.com/photos/ericinsf

Grower: Kreg Martin

Info: Charles Baker culture sheet www.orchidculture.com and OrchidWiz 20.A

Stanhopea costaricensis

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 04:32:30 GMT

Stanhopea costaricensis

Stanhopea costaricensis is found in Nicaragua, El Salvador, Costa Rica, and Panama. Plants grow in intermediate evergreen or cloud and rainforests at 1,650 to 4,900 feet (500 to 1,500 meters) as a hot- to warm-growing epiphyte in moist, mist forest habitat. It blooms in the last spring and early summer with fragrant flowers. Plants are best grown mounted or in wire hanging baskets to accommodate the pendent inflorescences. Repotting should be done when new root growth is just starting. Growers report that Stanhopea are reluctant bloomers if given insufficient light, but the foliage is prone to burning or yellowing if light is too bright. Strong air movement is critically important.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: Orchid Species Plus
Info: Charles Baker culture sheet www.orchidculture.com and Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia www.orchidspecies.com

Acineta superba

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 01:19:40 GMT

Acineta superba

Acineta is a genus with 14 accepted species. Acineta superba is found in Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru in seasonally dry cloud forest at 930 to 2,100 meters (3,050 to 6,900 feet. It can have from 5 to 30 large, fleshy, heavily waxy, and spicily fragrant flowers which bloom in the late winter and spring. These plants should be grown mounted or in a hanging basket to accommodate the pendant inflorescence. It should be given a short, dry winter rest.

Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: Orchid Species Plus
Info: Charles Baker culture sheet www.orchidculture.com and Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia www.orchidspecies.com

Dendrobium limpidum

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 22:13:44 GMT

Dendrobium limpidum

Dendrobium limpidum is endemic to Papua New Guinea and found at 1,500 to 2,100 meters in wet, montane forests. It is a Miniature to small-sized, cool- to cold-growing epiphyte or lithophyte that blooms at most any time of the year.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: John Leathers
Info: Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia www.orchidspecies.com

Sarcochilus falcatus

Sat, 29 Nov 2025 05:39:11 GMT

Sarcochilus falcatus

Sarcochilus falcatus is endemic to Australia and found from 100 to 1,400 meters (328 to 4,593 feet) on rainforest trees with exposure to fairly bright light and strong air movement. These plants, which grow in areas that are always very moist, are often found near gorges and ridge tops where winds and updrafts laden with clouds, mist, and drizzle are common. They appear to be found most frequently in areas in which the soil and rocks are of volcanic origin. The strongly fragrant blossoms open in the spring and last 2-3 weeks. They have an odor described as somewhat like vanilla.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: Mike Harrison
Info: Charles Baker culture sheet www.orchidculture.com

Calochilus campestris

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 01:06:02 GMT

Calochilus campestris

Orchids can be beautiful, and some can make you laugh! Have to love that about orchids! Here is one to make you smile. Calochilus campestris is a small-sized, cold-growing terrestrial from eastern Australia and New Zealand occurring in open forest and heathland in moist to well-drained soils at elevations of sea level to 500 meters that flowers in the spring and early summer.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Taken in situ
Info: Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia www.orchidspecies.com

Pecteilis radiata

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 01:47:59 GMT

Pecteilis radiata

Pecteilis radiata, formerly Habenaria radiata, is also called the White Egret Orchid. It is found in western China, Japan, and Korea in forest glades at 1,500 meters (4.921 feet) as a small- to medium-sized cold-growing terrestrial that blooms in the summer.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: Anna Chai
Info: Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia www.orchidspecies.com

Dendrobium aurantiiroseum

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 05:05:53 GMT

Dendrobium aurantiiroseum

Dendrobium aurantiiroseum is endemic to New Guinea, growing epiphytically in loose moss in shady, mountain habitats from 2,100 to 2,250 meters (6,900 to 11,000 feet) that blooms in the winter and spring. Though beautiful, this species is reportedly very slow-growing and difficult to cultivate. Growing conditions should be maintained year-round.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: John Leathers
Info: Charles Baker culture sheet www.orchidculture.com

Dendrobium subuliferum

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 05:14:10 GMT

Dendrobium subuliferum

Dendrobium subuliferum is endemic to New Guinea, growing epiphytically in primary and secondary forests at 300 to 2,000 meters (1,000 to 6,550 feet) but occasionally grows on the surface of the ground in shady, moss-covered locations. The sometimes fragrant flowers occur in the fall through spring. May be potted in sphagnum moss over bark or mounted. Repot any time new roots are growing.
Photographer: Eric Hunt
Grower: Marni Turkel
Info: Charles Baker culture sheet www.orchidculture.com and Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia www.orchidspecies.com

Masdevallia angulifera

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 06:18:16 GMT

Masdevallia angulifera

Masdevallia angulifera is endemic to Colombia and found in cool, moist, cloud forests at 1,800 to 2,000 meters (5,900 to 6,550 feet). It blooms in the winter through spring with fragrant flowers that can last up to three months. It should be potted in an open, fast-draining medium with some material to retain some moisture. Repotting is done every year in the late winter or early spring, or may be done anytime between autumn and spring, that does not interfere with flowering.
Photographer: Eric Hunt
Grower: Ron Parsons
Info: Charles Baker culture sheet www.orchidculture.com and Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia www.orchidspecies.com

Rhyncholaelia digbyana

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 17:58:47 GMT

Rhyncholaelia digbyana

Rhyncholaelia digbyana (formerly known as Brassavola digbyana) is found in the southeastern Mexican states of Yucatan and Quintana Roo, with distribution extending through the Caribbean-facing lowlands of Belize into Honduras from 10 to 1,000 meters (33 to 3,281 feet). They grow on stunted trees in hot, humid lowlands near sea level. Often found in large colonies, it blooms in summer with large, fragrant flowers. This species does best mounted on wood or tree fern, given plenty of bright light and ample water while growing, and a lessening after the bulbs have matured. This plant, “Quinnelly’s Joy’ has both an AM and CCE awarded by the American Orchid Society.

Photographer: Wes Newton
Grower: Patti Quinnelly
Info: Charles Baker culture sheet www.orchidculture.com and Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia www.orchidspecies.com

Masdevallia ova-avis

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 06:29:31 GMT

Masdevallia ova-avis

Masdevallia ova-avis is endemic to Ecuador, where plants grow on the western slopes in northwest Ecuador at 2.000 meters (6,500 feet) in dense cloud forests and on steep road embankments. It is a medium- to large-sized epiphyte or terrestrial that blooms with flowers that have a spicy perfume. It blooms in winter, spring, and summer. Water and fertilizer should be reduced somewhat in the winter but never allow them to dry out completely.
Photographer: Eric Hunt https://www.flickr.com/search/?user_id=39312862%40N00&safe_search=3&view_all=1&text=
Grower: Hanging Gardens
Info: Charles Baker culture sheet www.orchidculture.com

Masdevallia exquisita

Sun, 09 Nov 2025 05:43:59 GMT

Masdevallia exquisita

Masdevallia exquisita is endemic to Bolivia, and the plants were found in trees found along a ravine or gorge at 1,800 meters (5,900 feet). The plant blooms in the summer. Water and fertilizer should be reduced in the winter, but do not allow them to dry out completely. Medium should be open and fast draining, with some materials added to retain some moisture.

Photographer: Eric Hunt https://www.flickr.com/search/?user_id=39312862%40N00&safe_search=3&view_all=1&text=Masdevallia+exquisita
Grower: Golden Gate Orchids
Info: Charles Baker culture sheet www.orchidculture.com

Cattleya nobilior

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 02:11:21 GMT

Cattleya nobilior

Cattleya nobilior is found from Brazil to Bolivia at 500 to 700 meters (1.650 to 2,300 feet) in bright, airy positions on tree trunks or horizontal limbs of rough-barked trees, which grow at the very edge of the cliffs above the river valley. Water vapor from the river is carried aloft, thereby keeping humidity higher in the microclimate where Cattleya nobilior grows and providing some moisture, even during the long dry season. Blossoms are almost 5 in. (12 cm) across, the largest bifoliate Cattleya. Flowers open very flat with the segments fully expanded. They are very long-lasting with a faint but pleasant fragrance. Blooms in late winter or early spring. In cultivation, water should be reduced gradually in the autumn after new growths mature. Water once every 3-4 weeks with an occasional, early morning misting.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: Judy Carney
Info: Charles Baker culture sheet www.orchidculture.com

Cattleya intermedia

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 05:16:34 GMT

Cattleya intermedia

Cattleya intermedia is found in Brazil, Uruguay, and Paraguay. Plants are most often found in forests within a few miles of the coast and on nearby offshore islands in coastal or streamside swamps near sea level, but they are sometimes found at 300 meters (1,000 feet). Although sometimes described as fragrant, flowers usually have little discernible odor. This species is so variable that there are many named varieties, with even more horticultural varieties that are formally described. Plants bloom in spring, and a second flowering occasionally occurs in the autumn. Water and fertilizer should be decreased in winter with winter light as high as possible, short of burning the leaves. Plants are usually grown in pots or baskets filled with a very coarse, open fast fast-draining medium. Place in undersized pots that have room for only one to two years’ growth, so the medium does not stay wet for too long.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: Susan Anderson
Info: Charles Baker culture sheet www.orchidculture.com

Bulbophyllum cochleatum

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 05:09:06 GMT

Bulbophyllum cochleatum

Bulbophyllum cochleatum native range of is Tropical Africa at 900 to 2,200 meters (2.953 to 7,28 feet. It is a warm- to cold-growing epiphyte that blooms in the spring through summer. Some growers claim that if you remove fertilizer during the winter, you can force blooming in spring. The truth is, is that no one knows what causes a Bulbophyllum to bloom. Much is still unknown about their environmental cues.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: Jeff Tyler/In Situ Orchids
Info: Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia www.orchidspecies.com and AOS Culture Sheet

Cattleya acuensis

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 00:40:40 GMT

Cattleya acuensis

Cattleya acuensis is endemic to Brazil. They grow on moss or lichen-covered creekside trees in short, narrow ravines that extend down the mountainside for 200–300 meters (650–1,000 feet) to 1,950–2,070 meters (6,400–6,800 feet). Fowlie (1975) noted that plants in the habitat growing fully exposed to early morning and late afternoon sun were blooming while those in deep shade had no flowers and were not growing very well. In the habitat, they bloom in the late spring. Reduce water and stop fertilizing in the winter, but do not let them remain dry for long periods.
Photographer and grower: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Info: Charles Baker culture sheet www.orchidculture.com

Cattleya rupestris

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 22:53:15 GMT

Cattleya rupestris

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Cattleya rupestris is endemic to Brazil and grows as a lithophyte primarily in the seasonally dry tropical biome and blooms in the fall. A dry winter rest is important. Use a fast-draining orchid mix so the roots dry out between watering.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: Fritz Bredeek

Aerides odorata

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 04:34:33 GMT

Aerides odorata

Aerides odorata is widely distributed from India through Southeast Asia and Indonesia to Borneo and the Philippines at sea level to 2,000 meters (6,550 feet) as epiphytes often growing in full sun. The flowers are very fragrant and bloom in late summer and early autumn. Plants are most often grown in baskets but may be mounted or grown in pots.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: Mary Gerritsen
Info: Charles Baker culture sheet www.orchidculture.com

Dendrobium bracteosum

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 03:58:23 GMT

Dendrobium bracteosum

Dendrobium bracteosum is endemic to New Guinea from sea level to 1,200 meters (3,950 feet) on forest trees or close to the ground on mangroves in lowland rainforests. The flowers are fragrant, extremely long-lasting, and stay in perfect condition for five to six months. The flower size and color are variable. They bloom in autumn, forming large specimen clumps. Water and fertilizer should be reduced somewhat in the winter. Either mount of place in shallow pots filled with fast-draining medium. Repot when new roots are growing.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: white form: Golden Gate Orchids, pink form Napa Valley Orchids
Info: Charles Baker culture sheet www.orchidculture.com

Cattleya cernua

Sun, 19 Oct 2025 05:51:20 GMT

Cattleya cernua (formerly Sophronitis cernua)

Cattleya cernua (formerly Sophronitis cernua) is found in Brazil, Bolivia, and Paraguay as a miniature-sized, hot-to-warm growing epiphyte or occasional lithophyte that blooms in the late autumn and early winter. Mount this species on cork and give it hot to warm temperatures (this species requires warmer conditions than others), bright light, high humidity, and year-round water with less in cooler weather.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: Zeon Zhou
Info: Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia www.orchidspecies.com and Charles Baker culture sheet www.orchidculture.com

Aganisia cyanea

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 03:48:07 GMT

Aganisia cyanea

Aganisia cyanea is found in Brazil, Colombia, and Venezuela as an epiphyte at 100 to 500 meters (328 to 1,640 feet) in flat, low-lying forests in areas completely inundated during seasonal floods. It blooms in late winter until summer with up to 10 fragrant blossoms. This orchid will thrive if given a hot, humid environment with lots of shade or dappled sunlight and room for the plant to expand. Mist daily while growing.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: Brookside Orchids
Info: Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia www.orchidspecies.com and : Charles Baker culture sheet www.orchidculture.com

Psychilis cogniauxii

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 04:23:44 GMT

Psychilis cogniauxii

Psychilis cogniauxii is endemic to Hispaniola (Haiti & the Dominican Republic) at sea level to 1,000 meters (3,281 feet) as a hot to warm growing epiphyte that blooms in the later fall.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: Randy Peterson
Info: Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia www.orchidspecies.com

Cattleya walkeriana

Sun, 12 Oct 2025 00:48:23 GMT

Cattleya walkeriana

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Cattleya wallisii

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 20:29:51 GMT

Cattleya wallisii

Cattleya wallisii is endemic to northern Brazil and grows in trees of hot, humid lowlands at 150 to 700 meters (500 to 2,300 feet). The sweetly fragrant flowers bloom in the summer. Cultivated plants should be watered every 2 to 3 weeks in the winter with additional early morning mistings every 3 to 4 days for plants mounted. Reduce fertilizer to every 2 to 3 weeks while water is reduced. Repotting should be done when new root growth is just starting.
Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots
Grower: Kaiju Lyu
Info: Charles Baker culture sheet www.orchidculture.com

Cattleya mantiqueirae

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 22:23:04 GMT

Cattleya mantiqueirae

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Bulbophyllum guttulatum

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 22:57:08 GMT

Bulbophyllum guttulatum

Found in the Xizang Province of China, the western Himalayas, Assam, the eastern Himalayas, Nepal, Bhutan, Sikkim, Myanmar, and Vietnam at elevations of 800 to 2,600 meters (2,625 to 8,530 feet) as a small-sized warm- to cool-growing epiphyte that blooms in the summer and fall. Photographer Ron Parsons

Broughtonia lindenii

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 19:22:21 GMT

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Broughtonia lindenii is found in Cuba and the Bahamas. Plants grow at low elevations on trees and shrubs in coastal thickets and pine lands. Flowers are showy, somewhat cup-shaped, and drooping bloom from late spring through summer. Photographer: Ron Parsons

Cymbidium insigne

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 22:31:51 GMT

Cymbidium insigne

Photographer ©Phil Cribb

The Orchid Digest Front Cover 85-4

Cymbidium insigne Rolfe, Gard. Chron., ser. 3, 35: 387 (1904)

Cymbidium insigne is found in southern and central Vietnam throughout most of this mountainous region, particularly the Lang Bian Mountains near Dalat. Seidenfaden (1993) also reported collections from near Chapa in extreme northern Vietnam near the border with China. Plants also occur in the Loei region of northeast Thailand and on Hainan Island, just off the coast of southern China and northern Vietnam. Plants grow in sandy soils of open woodlands at 2,450 to 5,600 feet (750 to 1,700 meters). In Thailand, Cymbidium insigne is found at higher elevations, usually about 4,000 to 5,000 feet (1,220 to 1,520 meters). It blooms in the fall through spring with many flowers. It can have as many as 27 flowers.

To grow Cymbidium insigne, the light should be somewhat filtered or diffused, and strong air movement should be provided at all times. Summer temperatures average around 76oF (24oC) during the day at night 61oF (9oC). Water often when actively growing and gradually frequency after the new growths have matured in the autumn but should never stay completely dry for long periods. The media would drain quickly, so it does not become stale or soggy. Plants should usually be repotted every two years and done in late winter when the new root growth begins. Handle the new roots carefully. They are brittle and can break easily.

Cymbidium insigne has 129 first-generation offspring (a cross directly with insigne) and 16,708 progeny (where insigne is in the background).

Homotypic Names:

Cyperorchis insignis (Rolfe) Schltr., Repert. Spec. Nov. Regni Veg. 20: 108 (1924).

Heterotypic Synonyms:

Cymbidium sanderi O’Brien, Gard. Chron., ser. 3, 37: 115 (1905).
Cymbidium insigne var. sanderi O’Brien, J. Roy. Hort. Soc. 58: 415 (1909).
Cymbidium insigne var. album O’Brien, Gard. Chron., ser. 3, 58: 101 (1915).
Cymbidium insigne f. album (O’Brien) O.Gruss & M.Wolff, Orchid. Atlas: 97 (2007).

References:

Calypso bulbosa var. occidentalis

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 20:42:00 GMT

Calypso bulbosa var. occidentalis in situ

The Orchid Digest Front Cover 86-1

Calypso bulbosa var. occidentalis (Holz.) Cockerell, Torreya 16: 185 (1916)

Calypso bulbosa var. occidentalis is a terrestrial orchid found in the northwestern regions of Canada and the United States. It is found in Alaska, California, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington in the USA. In Canada, it is found in British Colombia. It has white and reddish markings on the labellum and blooms from April through June. The common names of this orchid are the Western Fairy-slipper and the Pacific Fairy-slipper.

Calypso bulbosa does not produce nectar; instead, their flower has a similar shape and smell to other nectar-producing flowers. Pollinators are lured to the flowers by these similarities.

Calypso bulbosa is chlorophyllous and hemi-mycoheterotrophic; it makes its own food and utilizes at least one fungus species to provide some of its carbon intake. The known fungus involved is Thanatephorus ochraceus , a saprotroph.

Calypso bulbosa var. occidentalis requires dappled, diffused, or filtered light. Summer day temperatures should average 74-85 ^o F (23-29 ^o C). Nights should average 45-51 ^o F (7-11 ^o C). Winter days average 41-47oF (5-8 ^o C) and nights 25-28 ^o F (-4 to -2 ^o C). Plants should be kept rather dry during the winter. Plants should be grown in a deep pot with a layer of rock or broken clay pots at the bottom for drainage and then filled with material collected from fir or pine forests or leaf mold. Fungi are important to the growth, so collecting potting material from where they grow in situ naturally gives them at least a chance of getting the fungi necessary for their successful growth.

Homotypic Names:

* Basionym/Replaced Synonym

Heterotypic Synonyms:

References:

Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
North American Orchid Conservation Center
Baker, Charles and Margaret
Cultivation requirements for Calypso bulbosa var . occidentalis

Ornithocephalus ciliates

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 20:28:00 GMT

Ornithocephalus ciliates

The Orchid Digest Back Cover 86-1

Ornithocephalus ciliatus Lindl., Ann. Nat. Hist. 4: 383 (1840)

Ornithocephalus ciliatus is a twig epiphyte growing on old citrus trees and shrubs in montane rain forests. As you can imagine, growing on a twig would result in low water and nutrient availability that would limit growth and hence a tiny orchid. Studies have shown that the twig epiphytes have higher growth rates allowing them to reach sexual maturity in less than a year. Survival of the species, perhaps? These twig epiphytes present anatomical and physiological adaptations (deciduous leaves and modiﬁed cells in the velamen of the root, among others) that allow them to survive in this stressful environment

It is found in Trinidad, Venezuela, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia between 200 and 2,200 meters (656 and 7,218 feet). The flowers bloom on an erect, 1 1/4″ [3 cm] long inflorescence with several flowers in the fall. The flowers are 1/8 inch (4 mm).

It is a hot to cool growing species best mounted on cork, tree fern, or wood. Shady, humid conditions are required with even, year-round watering.

Heterotypic Synonyms:

References:

Chase, M. W. 1987. Obligate twig epiphytism in the Oncidiinae and other neotropical orchids. Selbyana 10: 24–30.

Chase, M. W., L. Hanson, V. A. Albert, W. M. Whitten, and N. H. Williams. 2005. Life, history, evolution, and genome size in subtribe Oncidiinae (Orchidaceae). Annals of Botany 95: 191–199.

Mondragon, Demetria & Maldonado, Citlalli & Aguilar, Remedios. (2007). Life History and Demography of a Twig Epiphyte: A Case Study of Erycina crista-galli (Orchidaceae). Selbyana . 28. 137-144. 10.2307/41760304.

Phal, Jay. Internet Orchid Species Encyclopedia (IOSPE). Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia: http://www.orchidspecies.com/ornitkrugeeri.htm

World Checklist of Selected Plant Families: https://wcsp.science.kew.org/prepareChecklist.do?checklist=selected_families%40%40028280120221944474

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Cymbidium goeringii

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 19:47:00 GMT

Cymbidium goeringii

The Orchid Digest Back Cover 85-4

Cymbidium goeringii (Rchb.f.) Rchb.f. in W.G.Walpers, Ann. Bot. Syst. 3: 547 (1852)

Cymbidium goeringii is native to Bhutan, China, India, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. Confucius was the first to document this species in writing. The flowers, held low amid the leaves, are scented—the plants flower in February or March.

Cymbidium goeringii likes warm, bright, and moist conditions in the summer. They take cool temperatures, lower light, and drier conditions in winter. The traditional way to grow them is in bonsai mixes in tall, plastic cymbidium pots. However, they will grow in various media, including pine bark and coconut husks. The buds form in the late summer or early fall when the temperature is below 50oF and above freezing. Most buds will abort if the temperatures are too warm when they are spiking.

Please see the article by Ken Jacobsen in the 85-4 issue, Cymbidium Goeringii—a Tale of Two Orchids, for lots of interesting information on this wonderful orchid.

Homotypic Names:

* Basionym/Replaced Synonym

Heterotypic Synonyms:

References:

Orchid Web presented by Orchids Limited. https://www.orchidweb.com/orchids/cymbidium/species/cymbidium-goeringii-daifuuki

Phal, Jay. Internet Orchid Species Encyclopedia (IOSPE). Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia: http://www.orchidspecies.com/ornitkrugeeri.htm

World Checklist of Selected Plant Families: https://wcsp.science.kew.org/prepareChecklist.do?checklist=selected_families%40%40028280120221944474

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Bulbophyllum scaberulum

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 17:46:00 GMT

Bulbophyllum scaberulum

Bulbophyllum scaberulum
Photographer: John Varigos

A widespread African species found in most of the countries of central and South Africa. It is a creeping epiphytic or occasionally lithophytic and found at 100 to 1800 meters (350 to 5,900 feet). The plants usually grow in riverside forests. It has many flowers per inflorescence and the flowers are fleshy and do not open fully. The plant is usually about 37 cm (15 inches) tall.

Progeny: None

Awards: Four AOS awards:
Two CBRS, one HCC, and on Certificate of Cultural Merit when it 110 flowers and 20 buds on 130 inflorescences. It was last awarded in 2016.

Culture: Charles Baker (www.orchidculture.com)
Light: Light should be filtered or diffused, with strong air movement at all times. The species seems to require less light than most other bulbophyllums.

Temperatures: Daytime: average 24 to 26°C (76 to 78°F) and Night: 15 to 17°C (50 to 62°F). Because of the range in distribution and habitat elevation, the plants may adapt to temperatures as much as 10°F warmer or cooler.
Humidity: 80%. Do not allow to dry out completely. Growing conditions should be maintained throughout the year. Water may be reduced somewhat in the winter and again in late summer and early autumn.

Fertilizer: ¼ to ½ recommended strength applied weekly when plants are actively growing.

Plants may be mounted with a pad of sphagnum moss under the pseudobulb to hold a little additional moisture. If potted, grow in very shallow pots or baskets using an open, fast-draining medium. Plants may sometimes sulk for a year of so after being divided or repotted, so only repot when necessary. It is best to repot when a flush of new root growth is just starting.

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Schoenorchis seidenfadenii

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 17:43:00 GMT

Schoenorchis seidenfadenii

Schoenorchis seidenfadenii
Photographer: John Varigos

The genus Schoenorchis consists of 25, mini-miniature to small-sized, monopodial epiphytes occurring in Asia from the Himalayas to New Guinea.

Schoenorchis seidenfadenii is found in Thailand and Vietnam at elevations of 550 to 600 meters (1,804 to 1,969 feet). It is a miniature-sized, warm growing, creeping epiphyte. It flowers in the spring and summer on few to several flowered inflorescences. The flower size is 1 cm (0.4 inches). It has received a certificate of botanical recognition from the American Orchid Society and a bronze medal from the Orchid Society of Germany (D.O.G.). The Certificate of Botanical Recognition is Awarded to rare and unusual species with educational interest that has received no previous awards. The entire plant must be exhibited. This award is granted provisionally and filed with the judging center Chair pending taxonomic verification supplied by the exhibitor.

Progeny: None

Culture: Grow in bright, indirect light conditions. Temperature range: 66°F to 85°F (19°C to 29°C)

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