Smithsonian Gardens

Common name: The Heart-Lipped Brassavola

Family: Orchidaceae subfam. Epidendroideae

Synonym: Brassavola cordata

Distribution: Jamaica

Habitat: On Samanea saman trees; 150-610m

Life form: Epiphytic

Fragrance: Citrus (at night)

Bloom characteristics: Inflorescence is up to 6" long with 6 flowers. Flowers are 1.75" across.

Pollination syndrome: Moth

Description: This orchid has lime green flowers with a white, heart-shaped lip and can bloom at least twice a year. Its flowers release a citrus scent a night, indicating that it is likely pollinated by moths.

Comments: Brassavola subulifolia