Elleanthus conifer

Native from Colombia to Peru, this perennial orchid grows on the ground or as an epiphyte near tree bases in wet tropical vegetation. Slender cane-like stems carry folded leaves along their upper portions. The terminal flower cluster initially resembles a small cone, then elongates as flowers open. Numerous pink blooms appear successively in a spiral arrangement. Its cone-like inflorescence is reflected in the species name. Photographed in Colombia.