SafePlants

Cowhorn Orchid (Cyrtopodium punctatum)

Considerations for Pets

• This orchid is often found attached to tree trunks by aerial roots, potentially making it accessible to pets in outdoor settings.

Common Names

• Cowhorn Orchid
• Cigar Orchid
• Bee-swarm Orchid

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cyrtopodium punctatum (L.) Lindl.
• Family: Orchidaceae

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to Florida.
• Also found throughout the American tropics and subtropics, including Belize and Brazil.
• Often grows as an epiphyte on trees in swamps, cypress domes, and hammocks.
• Can also be found in sunny salt marshes.
• Sometimes found growing on the ground, though this is rare.

Ecological Role

• Listed as endangered in some areas.
• Efforts are underway for cowhorn orchid restoration projects.

Morphological Characteristics

• Epiphytic orchid with many white aerial roots.
• Has stems called pseudobulbs, which can be 12-14 in size.
• The dormant pseudobulbs are the size and shape of ears of unshucked corn (elote).
• Can grow to be a large orchid, with some specimens exceeding 5 feet in length.

Quirky Facts

• The Cowhorn Orchid gained popularity as an exotic houseplant during the 19th century, being shipped to buyers seeking unique botanical specimens.
• Its common names, Cowhorn and Cigar Orchid, derive from the shape of its pseudobulbs.

Further Information

• Encyclopedia of Life
• Dave's Garden
• Wikimedia Commons
• Discover Life