Epidendrum stamfordianum

Native from Mexico through Central America to northern South America, this orchid grows on large branches in seasonally dry forests. Spindle-shaped pseudobulbs carry several leaves. Unlike most Epidendrum species, its flower stalk arises from the base of a mature pseudobulb. Branched sprays can reach about twenty-four inches long and bear numerous showy, fragrant flowers. Flowering may occur at several times of the year. Photographed in Colombia.