Smithsonian Gardens

Common name: Blood-Red Inner Lip Lycaste, Canelitas

Family: Orchidaceae subfam. Epidendroideae (Orchid)

Distribution: Mexico (Chiapas) to Honduras

Habitat: Forests; 5900-7220ft (1800-2200m)

Life form: Epiphytic

Foliage characteristics: Deciduous

Fragrance: Spice, cinnamon, clove, or lemon

Bloom characteristics: Erect to horizontal inflorescence is 3-7" (7-18 cm) long with a single waxy, long-lasting, yellow flower. Flower is about 4" (10 cm) across.

Bloom Time (northern hemisphere): Year round; peaks from February to June

Pollination syndrome: Bee (euglossine)

Description: This medium sized orchid is often confused with L. aromatica due to the color of its flower. L. cruenta has very phototropic flowers, meaning that the flowers grow to face the sun.

Comments: Lycaste cruenta