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Brassia maculata

Scientific Name: Brassia maculata

Family: Orchidaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Brassia maculata

Brassia maculata, commonly known as the Spotted Brassia, is a striking orchid species admired for its distinctive spider-like flowers.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Brassia maculata R. Brown 1813
  • Common Name: The Spotted Brassia, Spider Orchid
  • Family: Orchidaceae (Orchid Family)
  • Subtribe: Oncidiinae
  • Synonyms: Brassia guttata, Brassia wrayae
  • Note: Brassia maculata R.Br. is an accepted name according to botanical databases.

Distribution and Habitat

This orchid species is native to:

  • Southern Mexico (Chiapas, Veracruz, Tabasco, Guerrero, Oaxaca, Campeche)
  • Central America
  • Cuba
  • Jamaica

It is often found growing on mossy boulders at lower elevations.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Flowers range in size from 5 to 8 inches (12.5 cm to 20 cm).
  • Known for its comparatively compact size, unlike some Brassia species with flowers exceeding 18 inches in length.
  • The long sepals and petals give the flowers a spidery appearance.

Quirky Facts

  • The spider-like appearance of Brassia maculata flowers is believed to provide a distinct reproductive advantage.

Additional Information

  • Further information can be found at the RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) and Tropicos databases.