Lycaste cassiopeia

Lycaste cassiopeia is a species of epiphytic orchid. This hybrid species is found in Central America and northern South America at elevations between 500 to 1900 meters.

Description

L. cassiopeia has laterally compressed ovoid pseudobulbs that carry 1 to 3 broad, lanceolate leaves with pronounced veins and with a beak ending. These leaves are perennial unlike other species of this genus that are deciduous. Between the leaves comes the inflorescence stem, about 15 cm with a single flower.

This species produces a long-lasting, triangular-shaped flower that has a peculiar fragrance and a waxy appearance. Flowering occurs in spring and summer in the northern hemisphere.

Distribution and habitat

This species is an epiphyte, distributed throughout Central America and the northern part of South America. They are found in montane forests with mists and seasonally variable humidity at elevations from 500 to 1900 meters.