Epidendrum magnoliae Muhl.

Green Fly Orchid

Facts About

Accepted Synonyms: Epidendrum conopseum, Epidendrum magnoliae var. mexicanum, Larnandra conopsea

Epidendrum magnoliae, the Green Fly Orchid, is a frost-resistant species and the only epiphytic orchid in the United States that occurs outside of Florida. The flowering period is August-March, however, it can flower sporadically throughout the year. This orchid produces 2-3 lustrous, dark green, coriaceous leaves and 1-18 yellowish green flowers that form a loose terminal raceme. The lip is 3-lobed and the column possesses two prominent pink tubercles. Large colonies can be found growing on a variety of trees, primarily live oak, but may be hidden by ferns that often share the same tree branch.

Epidendrum magnoliae is apparently secure, although in some parts of its range it is threatened by habitat destruction such as clearing and draining swamps and by overcollecting.

Pollination

This orchid is suspected to be pollinated by nocturnal moths.

Ecosystem Type

Forests, woodlands

Characteristics

Habitat:
epiphyte
Leaf arrangement:
alternate
Number of leaves on stem:
  • two
  • three
Form of the labellum:
the labellum is not pouch-like
Labellum outline:
the labellum is lobed
Main color of labellum:
  • green to brown
  • yellow
Nectar spur:
absent
Inflorescence type:
the inflorescence is a raceme
Labellum characteristics:
the labellum is lobed
Labellum length:
4–6 mm
Sepal length:
6–11 mm
Plant height:
Up to 30 cm
Show All Characteristics

Native to North America

Yes

North American Conservation Status & Distribution

Conservation Status

Select a location to view conservation status:

Conservation and Wetland Status
Global Rank Apparently Secure
US Status N/A
Canadian Status N/A

North America Distribution

Adapted from USDA data