caularthron bicornutum

The representatives of this small genus(2 species)used to be considered members of the genus Epidendrum, but were excluded from it on the grounds of the different position of their flower lip. Their robust, prolonged cyllindric pseudobulbs are hollow and , in the case of C.bilamellatum, they provide dwelling for ants. The pseudobulbs of the better-known C. bicornutum reach lengths of up to 10 in /25 cm ,and are covered with 3-4 leaves(up to 14 in /35 long) at the upper part . The clustered erect inflorescence grows out of the apex of the pseudobulbs and bears up to 20 white ,2.4 in /6 -cm-wide ,showy flowers . This epiphytic species is a sought -after rarity . Grow it on a suspended support , or even better ,in a permeable medium in a flowerpot . After fading in winter , it requirs a drier period of rest . It comes from Brazil, Colombia,Guiana , Trinidad,Tobago abd Venezuela(where the photograph was taken).