Arpophyllum
(pronounced: ar-poh-FILL-um)
Classification
Epidendreae subtribe Arpophyllinae
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Overview
Clump-forming epiphytes with stout, somewhat trailing rhizomes. Pseudobulbs cylindric, strongly compressed. Leaves one, strap-shaped, leathery. Inflorescences terminal, erect, pedunculate, densely-flowered, cylindric racemes subtended by a large spathe-like bract. Flowers not resupinate, purple. Sepals and petals free, spreading. Lip unlobed, concave, saccate at the base, without callus. Column short; pollinia 8, subsessile on a minute viscidium.
Etymology
From the Greek harpe, meaning sickle or scimitar, and phyllon, meaning leaf, referring to the falcate leaves of the type species.
Distribution
A genus of five species from Mesoamerica, northern South America and the West Indies.
Care and Culture Card
See basic growing conditions and care information below.
Grow plants of Arpophyllum in large pots or baskets with a medium-grade epiphyte mixture. The roots should not be disturbed any more than necessary. Provide very bright diffuse light, intermediate temperatures, and regular watering during the growing season. The plants will grow well under intermediate or warm temperatures but will not flower unless given a very cool dry rest period. The plants also flower best when pot-bound.
Literature
Correll, D. 1947. Revision of the genus Arpophyllum. Lloydia 10:214-217; Garay, L. A. 1970. Notas sobre el género Arpophyllum y su ocurrencia en Colombia. OrquideologÃa 5:66-73.
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