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Caularthron
Scientific Name: Caularthron
Family: Orchidaceae
Category: Monocot
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Caularthron
Caularthron is a genus of orchids, abbreviated as Cau. or Clrthr in the horticultural trade.
Common Names
- Virgin Orchid
- Virgin Mary Orchid
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Caularthron Raf. (1837)
- Family: Orchidaceae
- Subtribe: Laelieae
- Tribe: Epidendreae
- Synonyms:
- Diacrium (as a synonym)
- Diacrium amazonicum Schlechter
- Diacrium bicornutum Bentham
- Epidendrum bicornutum W. J. Hooker
Distribution and Habitat
The genus is found from the Caribbean through Central and South America. One species, Caularthron bicornutum, is native to South America.
Morphological Characteristics
- Plant size: The average plant reaches about 30 cm in height.
- Flower Size: Medium, averaging 6cm in diameter with up to 8 flowers per spike.
- Flower color: Petals, sepals, and lip are generally white with red blotches on the lip.
Ecological Role
- Some species, like Caularthron bilamellatum, are myrmecophytic, forming hollow structures that provide nesting spaces for ants.
Quirky Facts
- The flower of at least one species is described as having a refined fragrance similar to Persian iris.
- The pure white flowers of Caularthron bicornutum have earned it the common name "virgin flower" or "virgin Mary flower" in Caribbean countries.
Further Information
- Tropicos database
- World Checklist of Monocotyledons Database at the Royal Botanic Gardens
- Discover Life
- Wikimedia Commons