Catasetum Hybrids

Developed from orchids native to Mexico and tropical America, these cultivated hybrids are deciduous perennials, usually grown as epiphytes. Their swollen, spindle-shaped stems store water, and their pleated leaves fall during dormancy. Male and female flowers differ markedly; male flowers can launch sticky pollen packets when an insect touches their sensitive trigger hairs. Breeding produces varied flower colors, patterns, and lip shapes. They enter a resting period after leaf fall. Mature plants can be divided. Photographed in Florida.