Epidendrum cristatum

Native to tropical America, this reed-stem orchid occurs in tropical forests. Flowering stems branch into open clusters above the foliage. The flowers have long, narrow sepals and petals, often marked with spots. A small central lip bears a deeply fringed, crest-like margin made up of fine projections. This conspicuous crest gives the species its name and helps distinguish its flowers. Photographed in Colombia.