Ionopsis utricularioides (Sw.) Lindl.
Delicate Ionopsis
Facts About
Accepted Synonyms: Cybelion pallidiflorum, Dendrobium utricularioides, Ionopsis paniculata, Scaphyglottis pallidiflora
Ionopsis utricularioides, commonly known as the Delicate Ionopsis, is widespread in the southern counties of Florida, and occurs in Mexico, the West Indies, Central America, and northern South America. This plant grows to a height of 15 cm with flowering stems that can reach 50 cm in length. The 1-5 thick, stiff leaves are dark green that develop a reddish-brown cast when growing in more sunlight. Up to 75 pale pink flowers with darker rose-colored veins are produced from December-April on a panicle that emerges from the base of the pseudobulb. This orchid can be found growing on slender twigs and is usually found over or near standing water within hardwood hammocks, tramways and sloughs, and cypress domes.
Ionopsis utricularioides is apparently secure throughout its range in the American tropics but is endangered in Florida.
Pollination
Pollinator information has not been reported but this orchid does not offer a floral reward and is rarely visited in observational studies.
Ecosystem Type
Swamps, woodlands
Characteristics
- Habitat:
- epiphyte
- Leaf arrangement:
- stem
- Number of leaves on stem:
-
- one
- two
- three
- four
- five
- Form of the labellum:
- the labellum is not pouch-like
- Labellum outline:
- the labellum is lobed
- Main color of labellum:
-
- blue to purple
- pink to red
- white
- Nectar spur:
- present
- Inflorescence type:
- the inflorescence is a panicle
- Labellum characteristics:
- the labellum is lobed
- Labellum length:
- Up to 12 mm
- Sepal length:
- 5–7 mm
- Plant height:
- Up to 50 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 |