Epidendrum rigidum Jacq.
Rigid Epidendrum
Facts About
Accepted Synonyms: Epidendrum cardiophorum, Epidendrum pium, Spathiger rigidus
Epidendrum rigidum, the Rigid Epidendrum, is native to south Florida and the Caribbean Islands, and extends from Mexico to Peru. The erect or pendulous reed-like stems unite at the base to form a creeping rhizome. The leaves are alternate and the inflorescence has large floral bracts with 3-15 sessile, non-resupinate, marcescent flowers on a terminal spike. The alternating pattern of green flowers has given rise to the local name the "zigzag orchid". This orchid grows on tree branches and trunks in swamps and hammocks, including mangrove forests.
Epidendrum rigidum is apparently secure across its wide range but is endangered in south Florida.
Pollination
This orchid is autogamous and does not need a pollinator for reproduction.
Ecosystem Type
Swamps
Characteristics
- Habitat:
- epiphyte
- Leaf arrangement:
- alternate
- Number of leaves on stem:
-
- two
- three
- four
- five
- six
- Form of the labellum:
- the labellum is not pouch-like
- Labellum outline:
- the labellum is simple
- Main color of labellum:
- green to brown
- Nectar spur:
- absent
- Inflorescence type:
- the inflorescence is a spike
- Labellum characteristics:
- the labellum is simple
- Labellum length:
- Up to 3 mm
- Sepal length:
- Up to 5 mm
- Plant height:
- Up to 20 cm
Native to North America
Yes
North American Conservation Status & Distribution
Conservation Status
| Conservation and Wetland Status | |
|---|---|
| Global Rank | Apparently Secure |
| US Status | N/A |
| Canadian Status | N/A |