Epidendrum strobiliferum Rchb.f.

Cone Bearing Epidendrum

Facts About

Accepted Synonyms: Epidendrum verecundum, Isochilus ramosus, Spathiger strobiliferus

Epidendrum strobiliferum, the Cone Bearing Epidendrum, is considered the smallest and most inconspicuous of the Epidendrum species. In Florida, it has only been found in the Fakahatchee Swamp and in the vicinity of Collier County but its range includes the West Indies, Mexico, Central America, and northern South America. The elliptic reddish brown, coriaceous leaves alternate on the stem. Up to 3 terminal, non-resupinate flowers are concealed by a large bract. The sepals are a pale yellow color and ovate in shape and the petals are white and linear. Flowering occurs between October-November. Plants grow on a wide variety of trees, including red maple, bald cypress, pop ash, and pond apple in swampy areas.

Epidendrum strobiliferum is endangered in Florida, although it is considered apparently secure across its range.

Pollination

This orchid is autogamous but may also be pollinated by flies and butterflies in search of nectar.

Ecosystem Type

Swamps

Characteristics

Habitat:
epiphyte
Leaf arrangement:
alternate
Number of leaves on stem:
  • two
  • three
  • four
  • five
  • six
  • seven or more
Form of the labellum:
the labellum is not pouch-like
Labellum outline:
the labellum is simple
Main color of labellum:
  • white
  • yellow
Nectar spur:
absent
Inflorescence type:
the inflorescence has one flower or a pair of flowers
Labellum characteristics:
the labellum is saccate
Labellum length:
Up to 3 mm
Sepal length:
Up to 3 mm
Plant height:
Up to 18 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