A

a or an A prefix meaning without or absent.

abaxial (ab-AXE-ee-al) On the side away from the axis.

abbreviatus, -a, -um (a-bree-vee-AY-tus) Shortened; abbreviated.

Aberrant: plantlet growing on an Encyclia pseudobulb.

aberrant (ab-AIR-ant) Unusual or exceptional; a plant or structure that varies from
the normal or typical.

abortion (a-BORE-shun) Premature bud or flower drop or poorly developed organ.

abortivus, -a, -um (ab-or-TYE-vus) Imperfectly formed or rudimentary; abortive.

abruptus, -a, -um (ab-RUP-tus) Broken off, or ending suddenly; abrupt.

Acacallis (a-ka-KALL-iss) Now considered synonymous with Aganisia, a

genus of 3 species from northern South America related to Zygopetalum, described
by Lindley in 1839.

Acampe (a-KAM-pee) A genus of about 7 tropical Asian and African orchids

related to Vanda and described by Lindley in 1853, the name derived from the Greek
in reference to the brittle rigidity of the small flowers.
Acanthophippium (a-canth-oh-FIP-ee-um) A terrestrial genus of about 15 species
from tropical Asia. Blume first described the genus in 1825. He coined the generic
name from two Greek words meaning "thorn" and "saddle," probably a reference to
the unusual lip.

acaulescent: Dendrobium purpureum has acaulescent

flowers.
acaulescent (a-kawl-ESS-ent) Stemless, or apparently stemless.

acaulis, -e (a-KAW-lis) Having no stem, or only a very short stem.

accessory buds (AK-cess-ORE-ee buds) Buds in addition to those in axils.

accrescent (a-KREE-shent) Said of floral segments enlarging with age.

aceriform (uh-SEER-uh-form) Having leaves similar to those of maple trees.

acerose (as-uh-rohs) Shaped like a needle.

achlamydeous (ak-luh-MID-ee-uhs) Having no corolla or calyx.

Acianthus (A-SEE-an-thus) The 21 terrestrial species in this genus range from

Australia north to the Solomon Islands. The genus was first described by R. Brown in
1810. The name comes from the Greek and means "needle flower," a reference to
the slender, acuminate sepals and petals.

acicularis, -e (a-sik-yew-LAIR-is) Pointed; needlelike.

acinaciformis, -e (a-sin-a-si-FORM-is) Shaped like a curved sword or scimitar.

Acineta (a-sin-EE-ta) A pendent-flowered genus of about 18 species allied to
Peristeria, founded by Lindley in 1843, the name referring to the immobility of the lip.

Aclandiae: Cattleya aclandiae, named after Lady

Ackland.
aclandiae (ak-KLAN-dee-eye) In compliment to the late Lady Ackland, wife of Sir
Thomas D. Ackland, of Killeton, near Exeter, by whom the Cattleya so named was
introduced from Brazil.

Acoridium (A-KOR-id-ee-um) There are approximately 60 epiphytic species of this

genus native to the Philippines. Nees and Meyen founded the genus in 1843 and
used the diminutive for acorum because the leaves resembled those of Acorus in the
Araceae. The species in this genus are now considered to belong to Dendrochilum.

acotyledonous (A-kot-el-EED-un-us) Having no cotyledons.

Acriopsis (AK-ree-op-sis) The seven epiphytic species of this genus are wide spread
from Australia to Nepal and east to the Solomon Islands. Blume, in 1825, described
the genus and coined the generic name from the Greek word for "locust" to describe
the unique column.

acrotonic (ah-KROW-tawn-ik) Developing at the tip.

actinomorphic (AK-tin-O-more-fik) Said of a symmetrical flower capable of bisecting

in two or more planes into like halves.

aculeatus, -a, -um (ak-yew-lee-AY-tus) Prickly; sharp-pointed; aculeate.

acuminatus, -a, -um (ak-yew-min-AY-tus) Tapering into a long narrow point;
acuminate.

acutus, -a, -um (ak-YEW-tus) With a sharp but not tapering point; an angle of less
than 90 degrees; acute.

Ada (AY-da) A genus of 16 species from Central and northern South America,
allied to Brassia described by Lindley in 1853. The name refers to Ada, sister of
Artimisia in Caria, a historical character.

AD/AOS An American Orchid Society award denoting an Award of Distinction, which

is given once to a cross, exhibited individually or collectively, representing a worthy
new direction in breeding.

adaxial (add-AXE-ee-al) Toward the axis.

adherent (ad-HEER-ent) Attached or joined, though normally separate.

adnatus, -a, -um (ad-NAY-tus) Having one organ attached wholly or in part to a
dissimilar organ; joined together; adnate.

aduncus, -a, -um (a-DUN-kus) Curved inward; hooked; aduncous.

adventitious (ad-ven-TISH-us) Referring to roots not directly derived from the

embryonic root or radicle. All orchid roots are adventitious.

adventive (ad-VEN-tive) Growing spontaneously, but not native; an imperfectly or

partially naturalized exotic.

aemulus, -a, -um (EYE-mew-lus) Rivaling; hence superior, very handsome.

 Aerangis: Aerangis modesta is found on the island of
Madagascar.

Aerangis (ay-er-RANG-giss) An African genus of about 50 species related to

Angraecum, established by Reichenbach in 1865, the name meaning "air vessel,"
probably in allusion to the long spur.

Aeranthes (ay-er-AN-theez) A genus of about 48 species of Sarcanthine

orchids chiefly from Madagascar and adjacent islands, characterized by their
complex flowers; the genus having been described by Lindley in 1824 and named in
allusion to the epiphytic habit of the plants.

aerial roots (AIR-ee-al) Roots produced above or out of the growing medium.

Aerides (ay-air-EE-dees) A vandaceous genus of about 26 species from

tropical Asia noted for their fragrant pendent racemes. The genus was first described
by Juan Lourerio in 1790, who derived the generic name from Greek to describe
these epiphytic plants.

Aeridovanda (ay-air-EE-doh-VAN-dah) A hybrid genus between Aerides and Vanda

created in 1918.

aestival (eh-STEE-vuhl) Flowering or appearing in the summer.

aestivation (es-ti-VAY-shun) The arrangement of floral parts in the bud.

affinis, -e (af-FYE-nis) Related or similar to; often used in the sense of doubtful or
ambiguous.
affinity (a-FINN-i-tee) A biological relationship among species or higher taxa
dependent upon resemblance of general characters.

africanus, -a, -um (af-rik-KAY-nus) Native of Africa; African.

Aganisia (ag-an-IZ-ee-ah) A genus of three tropical South American orchid species

related to Zygopetalum, some of which are blue-flowered; it was founded by Lindley
in 1839. Acacallis is now considered to be synonymous.

agar (AH-ger) Agar-agar; a gelatinous substance derived from certain seaweeds and
used as a solidifying agent in culture media; the culture medium made from agar and
used for germinating orchid seed, meristem tissue and the like.

agglomerate (a-GLOM-er-ayt) To gather together in a cluster or mass; collected into

a mass but not coherent.

agglutinate (a-GLOO-tin-ayt) To unite together with some sticky or viscous

substance; united as with a glue.

aggregatus, -a, -um (ag-greg-GAY-tus) Clustered in a dense mass; aggregate.

ala (alae) A wing (wings).

Alamania (AL-ah-MAN-ee-ah) This monotypic (having only one species)

epiphytic genus from Mexico was described by La Llave and Lexarza in 1825 and
named in honor of their Mexican friend Don Lucus Alaman, a public official.

alatus, -a, -um (al-AY-tus) Winged; having wings or winglike parts; alate.

alba or album (AL-buh, AL-bum) White; often used to describe a white or pale phase
of a species or hybrid whose flowers normally are colored.

albescens (al-BESS-senz) Whitish; becoming white.

albidofulvus, -a, -um (al-bid-oh-FULL-vus) Yellow and white.

albidus, -a, -um (AL-bid-us) Whitish.

albino (al-BYE-no) A plant with a marked deficiency in pigmentation.

albostriatus, -a, -um (al-bo-strye-AY-tus) Striped with white.

albus, -a, -um (AL-bus) White.

Alexander, H.G. (1875—1972) British orchid grower and hybridizer associated with
the famous Westonbirt orchids, first as grower to Sir George Holford and, after Sir
George's death in 1926, as head of firm of H.G. Alexander, Ltd.

alifolius, -a, -um (al-lee-FOH-lee-us) Winged-leaved.

allele (ah-LEEL) One of the alternate forms of a given gene, the alleles being
dominant, recessive or incompletely dominant.

Allen, Paul (1911—1963) American orchidologist with extensive knowledge of Costa

Rican and Panamanian orchids, coauthored with L.O. Williams the Orchidaceae of
the Flora of Panama (1946—1949).

alliaceous (al-ee-AY-shus) Smelling or tasting like garlic.

allopatric (al-O-PAT-rick) Being present in different areas.

alloploid (AL-loh-ployd) Individuals that arise after crossing two species or genera
and contain genetically different chromosome sets from each of the parents; the
chromosome sets are homoeologous (completely homologous in an ancestry) to
each other. Each set being present either once (diploid) or in greater numbers
(allopolyploid).

aloifolius, -a, -um (al-oh-i-FOH-lee-us) With leaves like an aloe.

alpestris, -e (al-PEST-ris) Of the lower mountains.

alpinus, -a, -um (al-PYE-nus). From high mountains; alpine.

alternate (awl-ter-NATE) Any arrangement of leaves or other parts not opposite or

whorled; placed singly at different heights on the axis or stem.
altissimus, -a, -um (al-TISS-eh-mus) Very tall, or tallest of its congeners.

altus, -a, -um (AL-tus) Tall.

alveolatus, -a, -um (al-vee-oh-LAY-tus) Honeycombed, or pitted with angular

separated depressions; alveolate.

AM/AOS An American Orchid Society flower award denoting an Award of Merit;

given to an orchid species or hybrid that scores between 80 and 89 points out of a
possible 100 points. If given by another society, e.g., Royal Horticultural Society
(London), it would read AM/RHS. This is the way it appears on plant labels.

amabilis: Phalaenopsis amabilis, the

pretty Phalaenopsis.
amabilis, -e (ah-MAH-bill-iss) Lovely.

ambiguus, -a, -um (am-BIG-yew-us) Doubtful, uncertain; ambiguous.

Amblostoma (am-BLOW-stow-ma) This South and Central American genus consists

of nine species. Scheidweiler described this epiphytic genus in 1838 and coined the
name from the Greek words for "blunt" and "mouth," a reference to the fact that the
lip is attached to the column. This name is now considered to be synonymous with
Epidendrum.

amboinensis, -e (am-boy-NEN-sis) Native to the island of Amboina in the Malayan

archipelago.

Ames, Blanche (1878—1969) Wife of Oakes Ames, noted for her fine illustration
talent, she designed the Society's logo, which is rendered on the AOS Gold Medal of
Achievement, which she received in 1924.

Amesiella (Ames-EE-el-ah) Originally thought to be an Angraecum until Garay

validated it as a genus in 1972 and named in honor of Oakes Ames, a Harvard
botanist. This epiphytic genus comes from the Philippines and contains three
species.

Ames, Oakes (1874—1950) Prominent American orchidologist, author of numerous

taxonomic works and papers, and recipient of the AOS Gold Medal of Achievement
in 1924, he established the Oakes Ames Orchid Herbarium and Library at Harvard
University where he taught and worked for more than 50 years.

amesianus, -a, -um (aims-ee-AY-nus) Commemorating a member of the Ames

family.

amethystinus, -a, -um (am-eh-this-TYE-nus) Pale violet in color.

amethystoglossus, -a, -um (am-e-this-toh-GLOSS-us) Having an amethyst-colored

lip.

amoenus, -a, -um (am-EEN-us) Charming; delightful.

amorphous (a-MORE-fuss) Formless; of no definite or constant form.

amphigean (am-fi-JEE-an) Found in both hemispheres; of both Old World and New
World; said of the distribution of plants.

amplexicaulis, -e (am-plex-i-KAW-lis) With leaves or bracts clasping the stem.

ampliatus, -a, -um (am-plee-AY-tus) Enlarged.

amplus, -a, -um (AM-plus) Large and thus fine, noble.

ampullaceus, -a, -um (am-pew-LAY-see-us) Flask- or bottle-shaped.

Anacamptis (AN-ah-CAMP-tis) There are twelve terrestrial species and numerous

varietal forms and natural hybrids iin this genus from Europe, Asia Minor and North
Africa. Richard described the genus in 1818 and derived the generic name from the
Greek word anakamptoin (to bend back) to describe the reflexed pollinia.

analogous (an-AL-o-gus) Related in function or use but not in origin.

anastomosing (a-NASS-toh-moh-zing) Netted; interveined; said of leaves marked

by a network of veins.

anceps (AN-seps) Two-edged, such as in a flattened stem.

ancipitous (an-SIP-i-tus) Compressed or flattened, two-edged.

ancipital (an-SIP-i-tahl) Having two edges.

Ancistrochilus: Ancistrochilus rothschildianus is one of

two species in the genus.

Ancistrochilus (an-siss-troe-KYE-luss) The 2 species in this genus are found in

tropical Africa. The genus was first described in 1907 by Finet, who coined the
generic name from two Greek words meaning "hook" and "beak," a reference to the
hooklike rostellum found in these epiphytic species.

androgynous (an-DROJ-in-us) Having both male and female flowers on the same
inflorescence; being both male and female; hermaphroditic.

androecium (an-DREE-see-um) The stamen-bearing or "male part" part of a flower;

the stamens spoken of collectively.

aneuploid (an-EWE-ployd) A genetic aberration having a chromosome number that

is not a multiple of the base number.

angiosperm (AN-jee-oh-spurm) Any plant of a class (Angiosperma) having the

seeds in a closed ovary; a flowering plant.

angraecoid (an-GREE-koyd or an-GRYE-koyd) African orchids resembling

Angraecum in habit.

Angraecopsis. A widespread tropical African and Madagascar genus of 16 epiphytic

species first described by Kraenzlin in 1900. The generic name indicates that the
plants look like Angraecum.

Angraecum (an-GREY-kum or an-GRYE-kum) A genus of over 200 species of

African vandaceous orchids centered mainly in Africa and Madagascar, the name
being Latinized from the Malay Angurek, which refers to all epiphytic orchids of
similar habit. It was established by Bory in 1804.

Angranthes (an-GRAN-theez) A hybrid genus between Aeranthes and Angraceum

created in 1975.

Anguloa (an-gyew-LOH-ah) A genus of nine species and numerous natural

hybrids from the Andes, allied to Lycaste. It was named in 1794 by Ruiz and Pavon
in honor of Don Francisco de Angulo, Director of Mines in Peru.

Angulocaste (an-gyew-low-CASS-tee) A hybrid genus between Anguloa and Lycaste

created in 1903.

angustifolius, -a, -um (an-gus-ti-FOH-lee-us) Having narrow leaves.

Anneliesia (ann-eh-LEES-ee-ah) This Brazilian epiphytic genus was described by

Brieger and Lueckel in 1903 and named in honor of Brieger's wife, Anneliese. It is
now considered by many taxonomists to be synonymous with Miltonia.

annual (an-yew-ul) A plant that completes its life cycle from seed to death in one
year.

annularis, -e (an-yew-LAIR-is) Ring-shaped.

annulatus, -a, -um (an-yew-LAY-tus) Furnished with rings.

Anoectochilus (ah-nek-toh-KYE-luss) A genus of about 51 species of "jewel
orchids" found in Southeast Asia and Australia closely related to Macodes, described
by Blume in 1825, the name referring to the open aspect of the lip.

anomalus, -a, -um (an-OM-al-us) Deviating from the normal or type; abnormal;
anomalous.

anosmus, -a, -um (an-OZ-mus) Having no scent.

Ansellia (an-SELL-ee-a) A genus of one rather variable epiphytic or lithophytic

orchid species from tropical Africa, named by Lindley in 1844 in honor of John
Ansell, English botanist of the Royal Horticultural Society's Chiswick Gardens.

antenniferus, -a, -um (an-ten-IF-fer-us) Bearing antennae.

anterior (an-TEER-ee-or) On the front or forward end or side of an organ or flower.

anther (AN-ther) The part of a stamen containing the pollen; in orchids the top part
of the column.

anthelate Having long branches bearing flowers.

anther cap (AN-ther kap) The covering of the pollen-masses on the flower's column;
the operculum.

anthesis (an-THEE-siss) The period or state of expansion in a flower.

Anthocyanin, video
anthocyanin (an-THO-sigh-a-nin) A type of naturally occurring flavonoid pigment
that is especially common within flowers and is responsible for red through blue
colors; these pigments vary in color according to the pH of the cell sap, presence of
metal ions and the concentration of co-pigments.

antipodal (an-TIP-oh-dal) On the opposite sides of the globe; diametrically opposite.

antrorse (an-TRORSS) Directed forward or upward (opposite of retrorse).

apertus, -a, -um (ap-ERT-us) Exposed; bare; open.

apetalous (a-PET-a-lus) Having no petals.

apex (AY-pex) The tip of an organ.

Aphids: cause damage to soft plant tissue.

aphid (AY-fid) A plant-sucking insect that attacks soft tissue.

aphyllus, -a, -um (a-FILL-us) Without leaves, or nearly so; aphyllous.

apiatus, -a, -um (a-pee-AY-tus) Beelike.

apical (AY-pik-al) At or pertaining to the tip of any structure.

apiculatus, -a, -um (a-pik-yew-LAY-tus) Ending abruptly in a short sharp point;

apiculate.

apicule (AY-pik-yewl) A short-pointed tip at the apex of a leaf or floral segment.

apiferus, -a, -um (a-PIFF-er-us) From apis, a bee, and fero, to bear; literally, bearing
bees, alluding to the beelike shape of the flowers.

Aplectrum (ay-PLEK-trum) A monotypic genus from North America, related to

Corallorhiza and Hexalectris. First described by Nuttall in 1818, the name is derived
from the Greek meaning "without a spur," in allusion to the spurless lip of the flower.

apocarpous (ap-uh-KAR-puhs) Having separate carpels.

apogamous (ap-oh-GAM-us) Said of pods developing without fertilization.

apomixis (ap-oh-MIX-us) The production of seeds through asexual methods instead

of the normal sexual means.

apomorphy (AP-oh-morf-ee) A cladistic term defining a derived character state.

appendage (uh-PEN-didge) An attached subsidiary or secondary part.

appendiculatus, -a, -um (a-pen-dik-yew-LAY-tus) Having appendages, such as a

crest, hairs, etc.

appressus, -a, -um (ap-PRESS-us) Pressed close to, or lying flat against another
organ.

approximate (uh-prox-eh-MATE) Situated near or close together.

apterus, -a, -um (ap-TER-us) Wingless.

AQ An American Orchid Society award denoting an Award of Quality, awarded once

to a cross, exhibited by a single individual as a group of not less than 12 different
clones or the inflorescences thereof, of a raised species or hybrid that may or may
not have been made before, when the result is a sufficient improvement over the
former type. At least one cultivar exhibited must receive, or have received, a flower
quality award.

aquatic Growing or living in water.

Arachnis (a-RACK-niss) A genus of 11 tropical Asiatic orchid species related to

Renanthera and Vanda, named by Blume in 1825 in reference to the spiderlike
flowers.

arachnoid (a-RACK-noyd) Cobwebby, by way of soft and slender entangled hairs;

also spider-like; similar to Arachnis.

arboreous (ahr-BORE-ee-us) Pertaining to trees.

arcuate (AR-kyew-ayt) Arched or curved like a bow.

aremiacus ( Being fragrant.

areole (AIR-ee-ole) A small area on a surface; an interstice, such as between veins

of a leaf.

Arethusa (air-eh-THEW-za) A genus of one bog orchid species from North America
known to Linnaeus in 1753 but named earlier by Gronovius in dedication to the wood
nymph Arethusa, who fled from the river god Alpheus, and entered Sicily as a
fountain. At one time, a second species was described as Arethusa japonica
however that species is now considered to belong to Eleorchis.

argenteus, -a, -um (ar-JEN-tee-us) Silvery.

argus (AR-gus) A specific name in reference to Argus, the hundred-eyed monster of

Greek mythology sent to watch Io.

arietinus, -a, -um (a-ri-eh-TYE-nus) Shaped like a ram's head.

aristatus, -a, -um (a-ris-TAY-tus) Bearded; furnished with a bristle-like appendage;

aristate.

armed (are-md) Provided with any kind of strong and sharp defense, such as thorns,
spines, prickles, barbs, etc.

armeniacus, -a, -um (ar-men-i-AY-kus) Apricot-colored.

Armodorum (are-mow-DOOR-um) South China, Southeast Asia and the Malay

Peninsular are home to the four species of epiphytic or terrestrial orchids in this
genus. The generic name was derived by Breda in 1827 from two Greek words
meaning "crack in the wall" and "gift." The name indicates that these plants grow in
cracks in rocks in their native habitat.

aromaticus, -a, -um (air-oh-MAT-ik-us) Fragrant; aromatic.

Arpophyllum (ar-poh-FILL-um) A genus of approximately four species of

mostly Central American orchids often called "hyacinth orchids" because of the
dense spike of rose-colored flowers, it is related to Ponera. It was described in 1825
by La Llave and Lexarza, the sickle-shaped leaves of the type species giving rise to
the generic name.

articulatus, -a, -um (ar-tik-yew-LAY-tus) Jointed; articulate.

artificial hybrid (ar-ti-FISH-ul HYE-brid) The offspring of an artificial cross between

two dissimilar parents, that is, parents not of the same species of hybrid grex; any
plant progeny produced with man as the pollinating agent.

Arundina: Arundina gramnifolia is wide-spread in

tropical Asia.

Arundina (air-un-DYE-na) A monotypic genus of orchids similar to Sobralia,

described by Blume in 1825, the name referring to the reedlike stems. Native to
Southeast Asia.

Arundina has become naturalized in many tropical countries.

ascendens (a-SEN-denz) Rising somewhat obliquely or curving upward; ascending.

Ascocenda (ass-koh-SEN-dah) A hybrid genus between Ascocentrum and Vanda
created in 1949.

Ascocentrum (ass-koh-SEN-trum) A genus of about 13 compact-growing

monopodial orchids from Southeast Asia and the Malayan Archipelago, allied to
Vanda (the hybrid being Ascocenda), It was described by Schlechter in 1913, the
name referring to the baglike spur at the base of the lip.

Ascoglossum (ass-koh-GLOSS-um) A monotypic genus from New Guinea and

the Solomon Islands that was described by Schlechter in 1913. He derived the
generic name from two Greek words meaning "bag" and "tongue" to describe the
baglike lip with its pointed mid lobe.

asepalous (ay-SEP-a-lus) Having no sepals.

asexual (ay-SEK-shu-al) Sexless; without involving sex, such as a vegetative

propagation.

Aspasia (a-SPAY-zee-a) A genus of about nine species in the Oncidium

Alliance, described by Lindley in 1832, the name in tribute to Aspasia, wife of
Pericles.

asper, -a, -um (AS-per) Rough.

asperatus, -a, -um (as-per-AY-tus) Roughened; asperate.

assurgent (ass-UR-gent) Ascending.

asymbiotic (ay-sim-bi-AH-tik) Without symbiosis; referring to a method of

germinating orchid seed without the presence of fungi.

asymmetrical (ay-sim-MET-ri-kal) Not symmetrical; having no regular shape.

atratus, -a, -um (a-TRAY-tus) Blackish; dark.

atropurpureus, -a, -um (a-troh-pur-PUR-ee-us) Dark purple.

atrorubens (at-roh-REW-benz) Deep reddish.

attenuatus, -a, -um (at-ten-yew-AY-tus) Narrowing to a point; attenuated.

augustifolius, -a, -um (aw-gus-ti-FO-lee-us) Having broad leaves.

augustus, -a, -um (aw-GUS-tus) Majestic; noble; august.

Aurantiaca: Gurianthe aurantiaca has orange flowers.

aurantiacus, -a, -um (aw-ran-tee-AY-kus) Orange-colored.

aureoflavus, -a, -um (aw-ree-o-FLAY-vus) Golden yellow.

aureus, -a, -um (AW-ree-us) Gold-colored; golden.

auricle (AW-rik-ul) A small earlike appendage or lobe.

auriculatus, -a, -um (aw-rik-yew-LAY-tus) Furnished with earlike appendages;

auriculate.

australasia (aw-struh-LAY-shuh) A variably defined biogeographic area that

includes Australia, New Guinea and associated biogeographic area, frequently
identical to the area east of Wallace's line.

australis, -e (aw-STRAY-lis) Southern.

autotrophic (aw-TROW-fick) Having the ability to produce its own food.

autophyte (AW-toh-fite) A green plant capable of manufacturing its own food,

neither saprophytic nor parasitic.

autoploid (AW-toh-ployd) Individuals with chromosome sets characteristic of the

species in question; the chromosome sets are homologous to each other. Each set
being present either once (diploid) or in greater numbers (autopolyploid).

autumnalis, -e (aw-tum-NAY-lis) Autumn-flowering; autumnal.

auxin (AWK-zin) A class of plant hormones responsible for regulating certain types
of growth, e.g., apical dominance.

auxotroph (AWKS-oh-trohf) An organism that has nutritional requirements for

specific substances, e.g. enzymes, proteins, carbohydrates.

awl-shaped (ahl-shaped) Narrow and sharp-pointed; gradually tapering from base to

a slender or stiff point; subulate.

awn (awn) A bristlelike part or appendage; any small, pointed process.

axil (AK-sil) The angle between a branch or leaf and the stem or axis from which it
arises.

axillaris, -e (ax-ill-AIR-is) Borne in the axil; axillary.

axis (AK-is) The main or central line of development of any plant or organ; the main
stem.

azalea pot (uh-ZAYL-yuh pot) A proportionately broad, shallow pot, usually two
thirds the height of a standard pot.

B
bacillaris, -e (bass-ill-AIR-iss) Stick- or stafflike.

backbulb (bak-buhlb) An old pseudobulb, often without leaves but still alive and
bearing one or more eyes, frequently used for propagation, located behind the
actively growing portion of a sympodial orchid.
back cross (bak-KROSS) A mating between hybrid progeny and one of the original
parents.

bactericide (bak-TEER-i-side) A chemical substance that destroys bacteria.

bambusifolius, -a, -um (bam-boo-see-FOH-lee-us) Bamboo-leaved.

banded (BAN-did) Marked with crossbars or horizontal lines of color, or with very
prominent ribs or other structure.

Baptistonia (bap-tist-OWN-ee-ah) A monotypic epiphytic genus endemic to Brazil

founded in 1877 by Barbosa Rodriques and named in honor of Dr. Baptista Caetano
d'A Nogueira. This genus is closely related to Oncidium and many taxonomists now
consider it to be a synonym of the latter. .

barb (barhrb) A short point or bristle; usually employed to designate points with
reflexed or hooklike appendages.

barbatulus, -a, -um (bar-BAT-yew-lus) Somewhat bearded; the beard small.

barbatus, -a, -um (bar-BAY-tus) Bearded, i.e., provided or beset with long weak hairs
or terminating in a mass of hairs, usually more or less straight and parallel. The
negative is expressed by imberbis.

barbigerus, -a, -um (bar-BIJ-er-us) Bearded or bearing a beard, alluding to the

fringed lip of many plants.

Barbosella (bar-bow-SELL-ah) A genus of epiphytic orchids ranging from

Costa Rica south to Argentina. Schlechter described the genus in 1918. The name
honors Dr. Jo—o Barbosa Rodrigues, a Brazilian botanist. Some taxonomists
consider there to be as many as 70 or more species while the World Checklist of
Monocotyledons recognizes 19.

barbulatus, -a, -um (bar-bew-LAY-tus) Somewhat bearded, or with fine or short

beard; barbulate bark. The word is often used in a general way to designate the
softer outer envelope of a stem or root. In this sense, it includes all that peels readily,
as the bark of the hemlock and oak, used for tanning leather. In a stricter sense, it is
applied to the corky layers formed on the outer surface of woody plants. It is formed
from the active layer of tissue, the phellogen.

bare-root: Recently imported -root orchids.

bare-root (bair-root) of or pertaining to a plant prepared for transplanting or repotting
by having all or most of the medium removed from its roots.

Barkeria (bar-CARE-ee-ah) A genus of 15 Mesoamerican species with a

diversity in Mexico, previously included in a broadly defined Epidendrum.

Barlia (BAR-lee-ah) A small terrestrial genus of two species from southern Europe
and northern Africa. Parlatore described the genus in 1858, naming it in honor of the
Italian botanist Sr, Barla, who collected the original material.

Bartholina (barth-oh-LEE-nah) The two terrestrial species in this genus can be found
in Cape Town, South Africa. The genus was founded by Robert Brown in 1813 and
named in honor of Thomas Bartholin, a Danish anatomist.

basal (BAY-suhl) At or close to the base.

basilaris, -e (bay-sil-AIR-iss) Pertaining to or at the bottom; basal.

basket (BASS-kit) A container for growing orchids, usually made of interlocked strips
of wood, that offers maximum drainage and aeration of the growing medium.

basitonic (BASE-eh-tawn-ick) When the rostellum or viscidium are connected to the

base of the anther.

Bateman, James (1811—1897) An English orchidist and orchidologist, noted for his
several outstanding books on orchids, particularly the elephantine volume Orchids of
Mexico and Guatemala, published 1837—1843, and A Monograph of
Odontoglossum.

Batemannia (bayt-MAN-nee-ah) A genus of epiphytic orchids with about five

species from northern South America, closely related to Lycaste, Zygosepalum and
Promenaea, it was founded in 1834 by Lindley in compliment to James Bateman.

Bauer, Franz Andreas (1758—1840) An outstanding botanical illustrator and artist

who worked with Lindley on orchids.

beak (beek) A long, prominent and substantial point, applied particularly to

prolongations of fruits and carpels.

Beallara (bee-ul-AH-rah) A former hybrid genus derived from Brassia, Cochlioda,

Miltonia and Odontoglossum, it was created in 1970 and named after Beall's
Nursery. With the reorganization of the Onciidinae, this hybrid genus now becomes
Aliceara.

beard (beerd) A long awn or bristle-like hairs.

bellus, -a, -um (BELL-us) Beautiful; handsome.

Bentham, George (1800—1884) An English botanist who was joint author with Dr.
J.D. Hooker in the monumental work Genera Plantarum, a treatment of all genera of
plants known at that time (Vol. III, Orchideae, pp. 460—636, 1883).

bi- or bis- (BYE, BISS) In Latin compounds, signifying "two" or "twice."

bialatus, -a, -um (bye-ah-LAY-tus) Two-winged.

bicalcaratus, -a, -um (bye-kal-ka-RAY-tus) Two-spurred; having two spurs;

bicalcarate.

bicallosus, -a, -um (bye-kal-LOH-sus) Having two calluses, or hard projections on lip.

bicameratus, -a, -um (bye-kam-er-RAY-tus) Having two chambers; bicameral.

bicolor (BYE-koll-or) Two-colored.

bicornis, -e (bye-KORN-is) Two-horned; having two horns or hornlike spurs.

bicornutus, -a, -um (bye-kor-NEW-tus) Two-horned.

bictoniensis, -e (bik-toh-nee-EN-sis) Of Bicton, near Sidmouth, England and refers to

the house of Lord Rolle.

bidens (BYE-denz) Two-toothed.

bidentatus, -a, -um (bye-den-TAY-tus) Having two teeth; bidentate.

biennial (BYE-en-ee-uhl) Of two seasons' duration from seed to maturity and death.

bifarious (bye-FAIR-ee-us) Arranged in two rows.

bifidus, -a, -um (BYE-fid-us) Split in two to the middle; divided into two equal parts;
bifid.

Bifoliate: Cattleya tigrina has two leaves and is a

bifoliate Cattleya.
bifoliate (BYE-foll-ee-it) Having two leaves; two-leaved.

biforate (BYE-for-ayt) With two openings, pores or apertures.

Bifrenaria (bye-fren-AIR-ee-a) A genus of about 21 species related to Lycaste,

from Central and South America, described by Lindley in 1833, the name alluding to
the two caudicles on the pollinia.
bifurcatus, -a, -um (bye-fur-KAY-tus) Two-forked or two-pronged; bifurcate.

bigeneric (bye-jen-AIR-ik) Involving two distinct genera in the parentage; applied to

hybrids.

bigibbus, -a, -um (bye-GIB-bus) Having two small protuberances.

bilabiate (BYE-lay-bee-it) Two lips.

bilamellatus, -a, -um (bye-lam-ell-LAY-tus) Bearing or consisting of two plates;

bilamellate.

bilateral (bye-LATT-er-al) Having a body composed of only two corresponding

halves, each half a mirror image of the other.

bilobate (bye-LOH-bayt) Two-lobed; parted into two lobes; bilobed.

bilocular (bye-LOCK-yew-lar) Two-celled; with two locules or compartments.

bipartite (bye-PAR-tite) Divided into two parts; separated nearly to base.

bipinnatus, -a, -um (bye-pin-AY-tus) Twice-pinnate; when the primary divisions are
pinnate.

bipunctatus, -a, -um (by-punk-TAY-tus) Having two dots or spots.

bisexual (bye-SEKS-yew-al) Two-sexed; with both stamens and pistils.

Bl See Brassolaelia.

blade (bleyd) The expanded portion of a leaf or floral segment.

blandus, -a, -um (BLAN-dus) Pleasing; charming; tempting; alluring.

Blc See Brassolaeliocattleya.

 Bletia: Bletia purpurea is a widespread species of the
Americas and Caribbean.
Bletia (BLEE-tee-a or BLAY-tee-ah)) A genus of American terrestrial orchids
comprising some 35 species with greatest diversity in Mexico, resembling
Spathoglottis, described by Ruiz and Pavon in 1794 in honor of Don Luis Blet, a
Spanish apothecary of the 18th century, who maintained a botanic garden in
Algeciras.

Bletilla (blee-TILL-a or blay-till-ah) A genus of terrestrial orchids with around

five species from (the region embracing China, Japan and Formosa), allied to the
American genera of Arethusa and Calopogon, it was described by Reichenbach in
1853, the name implying its resemblance to the genus Bletia, to which it is only
distantly related. Sold commercially as hardy Chinese orchid.

bloom (bloom) A white powdery covering on the surface, may be waxy. Also another
name for a flower.

Blume, Karl Ludwig (1796—1862) An early Dutch botanist who worked extensively
on the flora of the area now known as Indonesia. He described many orchids
including Phalaenopsis.
 boisduval scale, video
boisduval scale (BWAS-doo-vahl skayl) A pernicious sucking insect characterized
by white extruded waxy coatings.

boliviensis, -e (bo-liv-ee-EN-sis) Native of Bolivia; Bolivian.

Bolusiella (bowl-us-EE-ell-ah) There are about six epiphytic species in this tropical
African genus. Schlechter named the genus in 1918 in honor of Sir Harry Bolus, a
pioneer South African botanist.

Bollea (BOH-lee-a) A genus of 10 species of high-elevation South American

epiphytic orchids allied to Huntleya and Cochleanthes. It was described by
Reichenbach in 1852, being dedicated to Dr. Karl Bolle, a German patron of
horticulture. This genus is now considered by many taxonomists to be synonymous
with Pescatorea.

Bolus, Henry (1834—1911) A British botanist and student of the orchids of South
Africa, author of the three-volume work Orchids of South Africa, published 1893—
1913.
 Bonatea: Bonatea speciosa is an African terrestrial.

Bonatea (bone-AH-tee-ah) A tropical South African genus of approximately 17

species of terrestrial orchids. The genus was named by Wildenew in 1805 in honor
of the Italian botanist M. Bonat.

borealis, -e (bor-ee-AL-iss) Northern; of the north.

boss (baws) A prominent center or projection on a flat and more or less circular
surface.

botanical (bo-TAN-i-kul) A term designating any species, genus or orchid that is not
grown commercially for its flowers.

Bothriochilus (both-ree-oh-KYE-liss) There are four species in this genus native from
Mexico south to Panama. Lemaire described the genus in 1852, coining the name
from two Greek words meaning "small hollow tip." The species in this genus may be
epiphytic, terrestrial or lithophytes. The genus is now considered by many
taxonomists to be synonymous with Coelia.

Boxall, William (1884—1910) A British orchid collector who worked extensively in

tropical Asia, especially in the Philippines, and whose name is commemorated in
numerous species.

Brachtia (brackt-EE-ah) This epiphytic genus was named in honor of an Austro-

Hungarian military officer, Captain Bracht, who collected plants in northern Italy. H.G.
Reichenbach described this genus of seven Andean species in 1850. It closely
resembles Brassia

brachiatus, -a, -um (brack-ee-AY-tus) Branched or having arms; in Brassia it refers

to the very long tails; brachiate.

Brachycorythis (brack-ee-ko-RYE-thiss) A genus of about 36 species of tropical

African and Asian terrestrial orchids somewhat related to Orchis and to Habenaria. It
was described by Lindley in 1838, the name derived from the Greek meaning "short
helmet" in allusion to the shape of the flowers.

brachypetalus, -a, -um (brack-ee-PET-a-lus) Having petals like arms.

bract (brakt) A reduced leaflike or scalelike organ embracing the base of the flower
stem or aggregation of flowers.

bracteatus, -a, -um (brack-tee-AY-tus) Bracted; having several or many bracts;

bracteate.

bracteiform (BRACK-tee-form) Of the shape and form of a bract.

bracteole (BRACK-tee-ohl) A small bract.

bracteosus, -a, -um (brak-tee-OH-suss) With numerous or conspicuous bracts.

bractescens (brak-TESS-enz) Having very large bracts or a strong tendency to

develop bracts.

brasiliensis, -e (brah-zil-ee-EN-siss) Native of Brazil; Brazilian.

Brassavola (bra-SAH-voh-lah) A genus of about 20 tropical American orchids

closely allied to Cattleya and Laelia, described by Robert Brown in 1813 and
dedicated to Sr. Antonio Musa Brasavola, a Venetian nobleman and botanist.
Sometimes called "lady of the night" because of the nocturnal fragrance.

brassavolae (bra-SAH-voh-lye) Like a Brassavola.

Brassia (BRASS-ee-ah) A genus of about 35 species in the Oncidium alliance

characterized by spiderlike flowers, described by Robert Brown in 1813 in honor of
William Brass, an 18th-century botanical illustrator.
Brassocattleya (brass-oh-CAT-lee-ah) A hybrid genus between Brassavola and
Cattleya, with the first artificial hybrid created in 1889.

Brassoepidendrum (brass-oh-ep-i-DEN-drum) A hybrid genus between Brassavola

and Epidendrum created in 1906.

Brassolaelia (brass-oh-LEE-lee-ah; brass-oh-LYE-lee-ah) A hybrid genus between

Brassavola and Laelia created in 1898.

Brassolaeliocattleya (brass-oh-LEE-lee-oh-KAT-lee-ah; brass-oh-LYE-lee-oh-KAT-

lee-ah) A hybrid genus derived from Brassavola, Laelia and Cattleya created in
1897.

breaking (BRAY-king) Said when vegetative buds start to grow.

brevis, -e (BREV-is) Short; abbreviated.

brevifolius, -a, -um (brev-ee-FOH-lee-us) Short-leaved.

breviscapus, -a, -um (brev-ee-SCAY-pus) Having a short scape or flower stalk.

bristly (BRISS-lee) Bearing stiff strong hairs or bristles.

Broadway, Walter E. (1863—1935) An English gardener and botanist who collected

in Trinidad, Venezuela and French Guiana, devoting his major years to the flora of
Trinidad, especially the orchids; his name now commemorated in several species.

Bromheadia (BROM-HEAD-ee-ah) Lindley established the genus in 1841, naming it

in honor of Sir E.F. Bromhead, F.R.S, a student of botany and a friend of Lindley.
The are about 28, mostly terrestrial, species ranging from Thailand south to
northeast Australia and east to the Philippines.

Broughtonia (brow-TOH-nee-ah) A genus of about seven species, attractive

epiphytic orchids from the island of Jamaica, related to Laelia and Cattleya. It was
established by Robert Brown in 1813, being dedicated to Arthur Broughton, an
English botanist who worked in Jamaica in the early 19th century.

Brown, Robert (1773—1858) A prominent British botanist whose contributions

include early observations on the cell nucleus and pollinaria in addition to numerous
taxonomic descriptions.

brumalis, -e (broo-MAY-lis) Winter-flowering.

brunneus, -a, -um (BROON-ee-us) Brown; russet.

buccinator (BYEW-sin-ay-ter) Trumpeter; shaped like a crooked trumpet or

shepherd's horn.

bucephalus (byew-SEFF-a-lus) From the Greek, boukephalos (ox-head) and refers

to the appearance of an ox or bull's head.

bud (buhd) An incipient or nascent shoot; the rudimentary or beginning state of a

stem; in common speech, a thickened and condensed resting stage of a shoot, a
flower or a leaf before expanding.

bud initiation (buhd ih-nish-ee-AY-shun) The early stage of differentiation of the

primordial flower stem and flowers.

bufo (Boo-foh) Resembling a toad.

bulb (buhlb) A thickened part in a resting state made up of scales or plates on a

much shortened axis; an informal term for pseudobulb.

bulb pan (buhlb pan) A shallow pot, typically one third the height of a standard pot,
commonly used for genera such as Pleione.

bulbiferus, -a, -um (bul-BIFF-er-us) Bulb-bearing.

Bulbophyllum (bulb-oh-FILL-um) A genus of some 1,000 species of orchids,

primarily African and Asiatic, described by du Petit-Thouars in 1822, the name
referring to the fleshy leaves borne singly on prominent pseudobulbs. See also
Cirrhopetalum.

bulbosus, -a, -um (bohl-BOH-sus) Having bulbs; bulblike; with the structure or
characteristics of a bulb; bulbous.
bulbiformis, -e (buhl-bi-FORM-is) Shaped like a bulb; bulbiform.

bullatus, -a, -um (bull-AY-tus) With a surface blistered or puckered, as the leaf of a
Savoy cabbage; inflated; bullate.

Burgeff, Hans (1883—1976) Professor of Botany and Director of the Botanical

Institute at W—rzburg, Germany, noted for his work on orchid mycorrhiza and orchid
seed germination, and recipient of the American Orchid Society's Gold Medal of
Achievement at the Third World Orchid Conference (1960).

Burrage, Albert C. (1859—1931) An outstanding patron of horticulture from

Massachusetts who assembled one of the country's finest collections of orchids, he
served as the first President of the American Orchid Society from 1921 to 1929.

bursicle (BER-sick-ul) A pouchlike receptacle.

bush house (boosh hous) A slat house.

Buysson, R. Du (1871—1893) French horticulturist and author of Des Orchidees

(1878), commemorated by Doritis buyssoniana

C
CBR/AOS An American Orchid Society award denoting a Certificate of Botanical
Recognition, awarded to a cultivar of a species or natural hybrid deemed worthy of
recognition for rarity, novelty and educational value.

CCE/AOS An American Orchid Society award denoting a Certificate of Cultural

Excellence, awarded to the exhibitor of a specimen plant that scores at least 90
points, a plant with robust health and appearance and an unusually large number of
flowers.

CCM/AOS An American Orchid Society award denoting a Certificate of Cultural

Merit, awarded to the exhibitor of a specimen that scores between 80 and 89 points,
a plant with robust health and appearance and an unusually large number of flowers.

CHM/AOS An American Orchid Society award denoting a Certificate of Horticultural

Merit, awarded to a cultivar of a well-grown and well-flowered species or natural
hybrid with outstanding esthetic appeal that contributes to the horticultural aspects of
orchidology.

Cadetia (ka-DET-ee-ah) A principally Australasian genus of about 60 diminutive,

caespitose epiphytic species previously included in a broadly defined Dendrobium.

caducous (kuh-DOO-cuss) Said of plant parts falling early.

caesius -a, -um (see-see-us) Bluish-gray.

Caespitose: Masdevallia dracula has a caespitose

growth habit.
caespitose (SESS-pih-tohs) Growing in small dense clumps or tufts.

caespitosus -a, -um (ses-pi-TOH-sus) Growing in tufts or dense clumps; forming a

turf or mat.

calathiform (KAL-ih-thuh-form) Cup-shaped.

Caladenia (kal-a-DEN-ee-ah) A genus of about 100 species of terrestrial

orchids from Australia, Indonesia, New Caledonia and New Zealand, often called the
"Australian Spider Orchids." The genus was described by Robert Brown in 1810, the
name referring to the rows of beautiful glandular hairs on the lip.

Calanthe (kal-AN-thee) A genus of terrestrial or semi-epiphytic orchids

primarily from Africa, tropical Asia, Australia and the Pacific Islands. Related to
Phaius, it was described by Robert Brown in 1821, the name derived from the Greek
meaning "beautiful flower." One nondescript species, Calanthe calanthoides, is
found in the New World.

calcaratus, -a, -um (kal-kar-AY-tus) Spurred; having a spur; calcarate.

calcareus, -a, -um (kal-KAIR-ee-us) Pertaining to or having a preference for lime;

calcareous.

calcariformis, -e (kal-kair-i-FORM-iss) Spur-formed; shaped like a calcar or spur;

calcariform.

calceolatus, -a, -um (kal-see-oh-LAY-tus) Having a slipper-shaped organ; shaped

like a shoe; calceolate.

calceolus (kal-see-OH-lus) Shaped like a little shoe.

Caleana (kal-ee-AN-ah) A genus of terrestrial orchids from Australia and New

Zealand. Popularly known as the "flying duck orchids," it was founded by Robert
Brown in 1810, the name honoring George Caley, once superintendent of the
Botanic Garden in St. Vincent, who greatly assisted Brown in collecting plants in the
Sydney area.

californicus, -a, -um (kal-i-FOR-ni-kus) Of California; Californian.

callistus, -a, -um (kal-LISS-tus) Very beautiful.

callosity (kal-LOSS-i-tee) A thickened and hardened part; a callus.

callosus, -a, -um (kal-LOH-sus) Having a hard protuberance or thickening; thick-

skinned; with calluses; callose.
 Callus: on the lip of Caularthron bicornutum.
callus (KALL-us) A hard protuberance or thickening (plural: calli)

calochilus, -a, -um (kal-oh-KYE-lus) Having a beautiful lip.

Calopogon (kal-oh-POH-gon) A genus of five species of terrestrial orchids restricted

to the United States and Canada. Allied to Bletilla and Arethusa, it was founded by
Robert Brown in 1813, the name adapted from the Greek meaning "beautiful beard,"
in reference to the brightly colored fringed crest on the lip.

Calyculate (kuh-LICK-yuh-late) Having bracts around the calyx resembling the outer
calyx

Calypso (ka-LIP-so) A monotypic terrestrial genus widely distributed throughout the

North Temperate Zone in both hemispheres. It was named by Salisbury in 1807,
dedicated to the Greek sea-nymph, Calypso, suggesting its preference for secluded
habitats.

calyptratus, -a, -um (kal-lip-TRAY-tus) Having a small cap-shaped hood; calyptrate.

calyptriformis, -e (kal-lip-tree-FORM-iss) Hood-shaped; like a cap pulled over;

calyptriform.

Calyptrochilum (kuh-lip-trow-KYE-lum) In 1895, Kraenzlin identified this epiphytic

genus from tropical Africa, coining the name from two Greek words for "veil" and "lip"
in reference to the calyptrate condition of the lip. There are two known species in the
genus.

calyx (KAY-liks) The outer of the two series of floral segments.

Camarotis (KAM-ah-ROE-tis) This epiphytic or lithophytic genus of 70 species,
widespread in the Pacific basin from the Philippines south to Australia, was
described by Lindley in 1833. He derived the generic name from the Greek word
"arched" to denote the lip's chambered structure. This genus is considered by many
taxonomists to be synonymous with Micropera.

campanulatus, -a, -um (kam-pan-yew-LAY-tus) Bell-shaped; cup-shaped with broad

base; campanulate

campestris, -e (kam-PES-tris) Of the fields or open plains.

Campylocentrum (kam-pil-loh-SEN-trum) A genus of around 64 species of epiphytic

orchids from tropical America, especially Brazil, notable for the many species that
have no leaves. It was established by Bentham in 1881, the name derived from the
Greek and meaning "crooked spur" in reference to the slender and sharply curved
spur of the lip.

canaliculatus, -a, -um (kan-al-ik-yew-LAY-tus) Longitudinally channeled; striated,

with longitudinal grooves; canaliculate.

candidus, -a, -um (KAN-did-us) Pure, lustrous white; shining or pure white.

canescens (kan-ESS-enz) With off-white or gray hairs; canescent.

canus, -a, -um (KAY-nus) Off-white; gray; ash-colored.

cap (kap) A sac-like removable covering of a part, as the operculum or anther-cap.

Capanemia (kap-an-EEM-ee-a) The 16 epiphytic species in this genus are found in

Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina. Joao Barbosa Rodrigues described the genus in
1877, naming it in honor of Dr. G.S. Capanema.

capensis, -e (kape-EN-siss) From the Cape of Good Hope, South Africa.

capillaris, -e (kap-ill-AIR-iss) Hairlike; resembling a hair; very slender.

capillatus, -a, -um (kap-ill-AY-tus) Shaped like a head; growing on a head or dense
cluster; capitate.

capitulum (ka-PIT-yew-lum) A little head; a close body of sessile flowers.

capsule (kap-sewyl) A dry dehiscent fruit composed of more than one carpel; the
seed-pod.

Captan (KAP-tan) A fungicide used as a curative or preventive spray against

bacterial and fungal diseases.

cardinalis, -e (kar-din-AY-liss) Scarlet; cardinal red.

caricinus, -a, -um (kar-i-SYN-us) Resembling a rushlike or grasslike plant or Carex;

sedge-like.

carina (ka-RYE-na) A keel-like part or ridge on the surface of a leaf or floral segment;
(plural: carinae).

carinatus, -a, -um (ka-ri-NAYT-us) Keeled; having a keel or keels; carinate.

Cariniferus: The lip of this Cattleya hybrid is

cariniferus.
cariniferus, -a, -um (ka-ri-NIFF-er-us) Having a keel; keel-bearing; cariniferous.

carneus, -a, -um (kar-NEE-us) Flesh-colored; deep pink; carneous.

carnosus, -a, -um (kar-NOH-sus) Fleshy; pulpy; carnose.

carotene (KAIR-oh-teen) A ruby-red crystalline hydrocarbon found as a pigment in

many plants; by extension, any carotenoid hydrocarbon.

carotenoid. (ka-RA-ten-oyd) A type of naturally occurring fat-soluble pigment

responsible for the yellow through orange shades of flower color.

carpel (KAR-pel) The cell of a simple fruit or pistil, or one of the cells of a compound
fruit or pistil.

Carr, Cedric Erroll (1892—1936) A famed collector of Borneo and New Guinea
orchids and author of several papers, associated with the Singapore Botanic
Garden.

carthagenensis, -e (kar-tha-jin-EN-sis) From Carthagena, Colombia.

cartilaginous (kar-ti-LAJ-in-us) Hard and tough; resembling cartilage.

Castaneous (Kass-tane-ee-us) Dark brown, as in chestnut.

cataphyll (KAT-a-fill) An undeveloped leaf, as at the beginning of a growth; a

rudimentary leaf form, as a bud scale, at the beginning of a growth.

Catasetum (kat-a-SEE-tum) A genus of around 100 species of chiefly epiphytic

orchids from tropical America, allied to Mormodes and Cycnoches It was established
by L.C. Richard in 1822, the name derived from the Greek and referring to the
antenna-like processes of the column of the flowers. The genus is unusual in having
unisexual flowers.

Cattleya (KAT-lee-ah) A tropical American genus of about 45 species of

showy-flowered epiphytic orchids related to Epidendrum, Laelia and Brassavola. It
was founded by Lindley in 1824 and dedicated by him to William Cattley, of Barnet,
England, an ardent horticulturist and patron of botany.

Cattleyopsis (kat-lee-OP-siss) A genus of eight species of dwarf epiphytes

from the Antilles, especially Cuba, now considered to be synonymous with
Broughtonia, it was described by Lemaire in 1853, the name indicating the
resemblance of the flowers to those of the genus Cattleya.
Cattleytonia (kat-lee-TOH-nee-ah) A hybrid genus between Broughtonia and
Cattleya created in 1956.

Caucaea. This epiphytic genus of about 10 species is from northern South America
and was originally described as Abola by Lindley in 1853 and transferred to its
present genus in 1934 by Mansfield, who derived the name from the Colombian
province of Cauca.

cauda (KAW-da) A slender tail-like appendage (plural: caudae).

caudatus, -a, -um (kaw-DAY-tus) Furnished with a tail or tails; caudate.

caudicle (KAW-dik-ul) A slender stalk-like appendage of the pollinium or pollen

mass.

Caularthron (kawl-AR-thron) The name given by Rafinesque in 1836 to a

genus of four species of tropical American epiphytic orchids allied to Cattleya and
Schomburgkia, until recently known by the later name of Diacrium, proposed by
Bentham in 1881; derived from the Greek for "stem" and "joint" in reference to the
jointed appearance of the pseudobulbs.

caulescens (kaw-LESS-enz) Having a tendency to develop stems; producing a

visible stem; caulescent.

cauline (KAW-line) Of or on the stem; growing on a stem.

cavus, -a, -um (KAY-vus) Hollow; having a pit or excavation; cavity.

cebolleta (seh-boh-LEE-tah) The leaves of one Oncidium, which resemble those of

the chive (Allium schoenoprasum), the Spanish name for which is cebolleta.

cell (sell) One of the ultimate compartments of which plants are composed; a cavity,
compartment or locule or an ovary or anther.

cellular (sell-EWE-lar) Composed of cells; arranged in the manner of cells.

centimeter (SEN-ti-mee-ter) A measure of length equal to 0.3937 inch (2.54 cm = 1

inch) or 10 millimeters.
Central America (sen-truhl uh-MER-ih-kuh) Continental North America south of
Mexico, comprising Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica,
Panama and Belize; synonymous with Mesoamerica.

centrifugal (sen-TRIFF-uh-gul) Moving or directed outward from the center.

centripetal (sen-TRIP-uh-tul) Moving or directed toward the center.

centrum (SEN-trum) The central part of any structure; particularly the large central
air space in hollow stems.

Cephalantheropsis (Sef-ah-lan-ther-OP-sis) A small terrestrial genus of about 4

species that is widespread from Japan to Thailand. Guillaumin founded the genus in
1960 and coined the generic name for its resemblance to Cephalathera.

cepifolius, -a, -um (sep-i-FOH-lee-us) Having leaves resembling those of the onion.

cepiformis, -e (sep-i-FORM-is) Onion-shaped.

ceraceus, -a, -um (se-RAY-see-us) Like wax; waxy; ceraceous.

Ceratostylis (ser-at-oh-STY-liss) Blume described this epiphytic genus of 60

species in 1825, deriving the generic name from the Greek words for "horn" and
"style" to describe the column's hornlike appearance.

cereolus -a, -um (se-ree-OH-lus) Waxy.

cerinus -a, -um (seer-EYE-nus) Wax-colored; waxy.

cernuus -a, -um (ser-NEW-us) Somewhat pendulous, drooping, nodding.

chaff (chaf) Said of bracts and scales that become dry and membranelike.

Chamaengis (kam-ENG-is) Schlechter first described this epiphytic genus in 1915,

deriving the generic name from two Greek words for "lowly" and "vessel" to describe
the swollen vessel-like spur. There are about 15 species found in tropical Africa and
the islands to the east of Africa.
channeled (CHAN-uld) Deeply grooved lengthwise; canaliculate.

chartaceous (kar-TAY-shus) Having the texture of writing paper; papery.

Chaubardia (shaw-BARD-ee-a) A small epiphytic genus of about five species

native to tropical South America and Trinidad. H.G. Reichenbach established the
genus in 1852, naming it in honor of M. Chaubard, a friend, and student of European
flora.

Chaubardiella (shaw-BARD-ee-ell-a) In 1969, Garay removed five epiphytic

species from Chaubardia because they had a distinct rostellum and lacked
pseudobulbs. The generic name indicates the flowers' resemblance to Chaubardia

Chelonistele (kel-on-ih-STEE-lee) . This epiphytic or lithophytic genus of 12 species

comes from Southeast Asia with the majority of the species found in Borneo. Pfitzer
established the genus in 1907, coining the name from two Greek words for "turtle"
and "column" to identify the winged column.

chemotaxonomy (kee-mo-tax-ON-oh-mee) The use of chemical evidence in

elucidating taxonomic relationships.

Chiloglottis (kye-lo-GLOTT-is) Brown established the genus of about 23 Australian

and New Zealand terrestrial species in 1810. He derived the generic name from two
Greek words for "lip" and "gullet" as he felt the lip resembles the human throat.

Chiloschista (kyle-oh-SHISS-tah) About 20 epiphytic Asian and Australian

leafless orchids, previously maintained in a broadly defined Sarcochilus.

chimaera (kime-AIR-a) A mythological monster that spouted fire; said of plants

composed of mixed genetic tissues. Said of a plant having three pink and one white
flower, the white flower being brought about by a chimaera.

chinensis, -e (chie-NEN-sis) From China. See also sinensis.

Chloraea (klor-A-a) There are around 50 terrestrial species in this genus ranging
across the midsection of South America. First described by Lindley in 1827, who
coined the name from the Greek word meaning "pale green" to describe the flower
color on the type specimen.

chloranthus, -a, -um (klo-RAN-thus) Having green or greenish yellow flowers.

chlorochilon (klo-ro-KYE-lon) Green-lipped; having a green lip.

chlorophyll (KLOR-oh-fill) The green pigment in plants that is essential in their

manufacture of food.

chloroplast (KLOR-oh-plast) A plastid containing chlorophyll, developed only in cells

exposed to the light, functioning in photosynthesis and starch formation.

chlorops (KLOR-ops) Pale green; green-eyed.

chlorotic (klor-OT-ik) Abnormally yellowed, due to a breaking down of the

chlorophyll.

chocoensis (cho-ko-EN-siss) Native of the Colombian province of Choco.

Chondrorhyncha (kon-droh-RINK-ah) A genus of about 27 species of epiphytic

orchids from the American tropics, related to Cochleanthes and Kefersteinia. It was
described by Lindley in 1846, the name derived from the Greek for cartilage and
beak, in reference to the beak-like rostellum.

chromogen (KRO-mo-jen) The color-generating material in a cell; genes for color.

chromoplast (KROH-mo-plast) A pigmented plastid containing red or yellow

pigment, as distinguished from the chloroplast, which contains green pigment; the
coloring matter of flowers and fruits.

chromosome (KROH-muh-sohm) One of the rodlike or beadlike bodies visible in the

nucleus during division, which contain the genetic units or genes.

chrysanthus, -a, -um (cries-AN-thus) Golden-flowered.

chrysocrepis, -e (cries-oh-KREEP-iss) Golden-shoed.

Chrysocycnis (kry-so-SICK-nees) This epiphytic genus of four species is found in
Central America and Andean South America. Linden and Reichenbach founded the
genus in 1834, deriving the name from the Greek words for "golden" and "swan" as
they likened the flowers to golden swans.

chrysothyrsus, -a, -um (cries-oh-THEER-sus) Golden-racemed, a compact lilac-like

inflorescence (thyrse) of golden flowers.

chrysotis, -e (cries-OH-tis) Golden-eared.

Chrysotoxum: Dendrobium chrysotoxum.

chrysotoxus, -a, -um (cries-oh-TOKS-us) Golden-arched.

Chysis (KYE-siss) A genus of nine species of epiphytic orchids from tropical

America bearing pendent, club-like pseudobulbs, founded by Lindley in 1837. The
name is derived from the Greek meaning melting, in allusion to the appearance of
the pollinia due to self-fertilization of the flowers before opening.

ciliaris, -e (sil-ee-AIR-is) Fringed with hairs; ciliate.

ciliatus, -a, -um (sil-ee-AY-tus) Marginally fringed with hairs that are usually stiff like
eye-lashes; ciliate.

cinereus, -a, -um (sin-AIR-ee-us) Ash-colored; light gray.

cinnabarinus, -a, -um (sin-na-bar-EYE-nus) Vermillion-colored; cinnabar red.

cinnamomeus, -a, -um (sin-na-MOH-mee-us) Cinnamon-colored; brown, like

cinnamon.
circinatus, -a, -um (sir-sin-AY-tus) Coiled; rolled up on the axis with the apex at the
center of the coil; circinate.

circumboreal (sir-kum-BOHR-e-al) In northern regions around the world.

circumscissile (sir-kum-SISS-ul) Opening or dehiscing of a fruit or anther at a line

around the circumference.

cirratus, -a, -um (si-RAY-tus) Equipped with tendrils or cirri; cirrate.

Cirrhaea (ser-A-a) To recognize the slender rostellum, Lindley used the Latin
word for "tendril" when he described this genus in 1825. There are seven epiphytic
species in this Brazilian genus.

cirrhiferous (si-RIFF-e-rus) Tendril-bearing.

Cirrhopetalum (seer-oh-PET-al-um) A primarily Asiatic genus consisting of numerous

species, considered by many taxonomists to be part of a broadly defined
Bulbophyllum, usually characterized by flowers in umbels and hence their common
name "daisy orchids." See Bulbophyllum.

cirrhus (SEER-rus) The tendril-like extension on lips of some Phalaenopsis, or other

organs in other genera, such as the column of some species of Catasetum (plural:
cirrhi; also, cirrus, cirri).

Cischweinfia: Cischweinfia rostrata is found from

Colombia to Ecuador.
Cischweinfia (see-SHVINE-fee-ah) A genus of about 10 species of Neotropical
orchids formerly included in Aspasia or Trichopilia.

citrinus, -a, -um (si-TRYE-nus) Lemon-colored.

citrosmus, -a, -um (si-TROZ-mus) Lemon-scented.

clade (kleyd) A taxon consisting of a single species and all its descendents.

cladogram (KLAY-doh-gram) A branching diagram depicting the successive points

of species divergence from common ancestral lines without regard to the degree of
deviation.

clasping (klasp-ing) Enveloping or embracing, such as a leaf surrounding a stem.

clavatus, -a, -um (klav-AY-tus) Club-shaped; solid cylindrical, slender at the base
and gradually thickening upward; clavate.

clavellatus, -a, -um (klav-el-LAY-tus) Shaped like a small club; clavellate; diminutive
of clavate.

claw (klaw) The long, narrow, stalklike base of a petal, sepal or lip.

clawed (klawd) Furnished with a claw.

cleft (kleft) Deeply cut.

Cleisostoma (kly-soh-STOH-mah) There are almost 100 epiphytic species in this

small-flowered genus that is widespread from India to the Philippines and south to
Australia. Blume founded the genus in 1825 and derived the name from two Greek
words for "closed" and "mouth," a reference to the callus that almost closes the spur
entrance.

Cleistes (KLY-steez) About 40 species of this terrestrial genus range from Florida
south to Brazil. Although the genus was first named by Richards in 1818, it was not
validly published until 1840 by Lindley. The name was derived from the Greek word
for "closed," a reference to some species whose flowers never fully open.
cleistogamous (klise-TOG-a-mus) Self-fertilizing in the unopened or just opened
flower.

clinandrium (kli-NAN-dree-um) The anther-bed, that part of the column in which the
anther lies (plural: clinandria).

clone (KLOHN) An individual plant raised from a single seed, with all its subsequent
vegetative propagations. Clonal names are designated by single quotes in the plant
name. For instance, the single seedling of the grex Slc. Hazel Boyd designated by
the name Frae would be Slc.Hazel Boyd 'Frae'. All divisions of this seedling would
also carry that clonal name.

Clowes, Rev. John H. (1777—1846) An ardent orchid grower at Broughton Hall near
Manchester whose fine orchid collection was bequeathed to Kew, his name being
commemorated in a number of notable species such as Miltonia clowesii.

clypeatus, -a, -um (kli-pee-AY-tus) Shield-like; resembling a Roman shield; clypeate.

cm (see centimeter).

Coaetaneous (ko-eh-TANE-ee-us) Said of plants flowering as their leaves emerge.

coalesce (koh-uh-less) To merge; to grow together, referring to similar parts of a

flower.

coalescence (koh-uh-less-ence) The union of similar parts or organs, or of those in

the same series, as stamens with stamens and petals with petals.

coarctatus, -a, -um (ko-ark-TAY-tus) Pressed or crowded together; coarctate.

coccineus, -a, -um (kok-SIN-ee-us) Bright scarlet.

Cochleanthes (kok-lee-AN-theez) A genus of about 13 species of tropical American

epiphytic orchids formerly known as Warscewiczella, related to Chondrorhyncha,
containing species until recently ascribed to Zygopetalum and allied genera. The
genus was established by Rafinesque in 1836, the name alluding to the shell-like
character of the flowers of the type species, described earlier in 1836 as
Zygopetalum cochleare by Lindley.
cochlearis, -e (kok-lee-AY-ris) Spoon-shaped; shaped like one valve of clam shell.

cochleate (koke-ley-ate) Spiraled like a snail shell.

cochleatus, -a, -um (kok-lee-AY-tus) Shaped like a snail shell; spiral; cochleate.

Cochlioda (kok-lee-OH-dah) A genus of about nine species of epiphytic

Andean orchids in the Oncidium alliance. It was described by Lindley in 1853, the
name suggested by the shell-like calluses on the lip.

Coelestis: Rhynchostylis coelestis has sky-blue flowers.

coelestis, -e (see-LESS-tis) Sky-blue.

Coelia (SEE-lee-ah) A genus of five species of epiphytic (occasionally

terrestrial) orchids from Mexico, Central America and the West Indies that includes
plants previously known as Bothriochilus. It was established in 1830 by Lindley
based on a drawing by the botanical artist Bauer that incorrectly indicated a "hollow
structure" to which the name refers in Greek.

Coeliopsis (SEE-lee-op-sis) This monotypic epiphytic genus comes from Costa Rica.
H.G. Reichenbach described it in 1872 and derived the name from two Greek words
for "hollow" and "appearance" due to its resemblance to Coelia.

Coelogyne (see-LOJ-in-ee) A genus of about 100 species of chiefly epiphytic

orchids from tropical Asia, described by Lindley in 1822, the name suggesting the
deeply excavated stigma.
coerulescens (see-roo-LESS-enz) Almost dark blue; becoming dark blue.

caerulescens (see-roo-LESS-enz) Having a tendency to blue; bluish.

caeruleus, -a, -um (see-ROOL-ee-us) Sky-blue.

coeruleus, -a, -um (see-ROO-lee-us) Dark blue.

co-evolution (ko-ev-uh-LOO-shun) The principle that biological organisms do not

evolve independently from each other; sometimes applied to the tandem evolution of
orchid flowers and their pollinators.

Cogniaux, Celestin Alfred (1841—1916) Eminent Belgian botanist who treated the
orchids of Brazil, the West Indies and tropical America in general, and also wrote the
text for Goossens' color-illustrated series Dictionnaire Iconographique des Orchidés.

coherent (koh-HEER-uhnt) Having similar parts united.

cohesion (ko-HEE-zhon) The union of two or more organs of same kind.

Colax (KOH-laks) See Pabstia.

colchicine (kohl-chi-SEEN) A carcinogenic compound used to double chromosome

numbers artificially through the interference of microtubule function during mitosis.

collateral (kuh-LAT-er-uhl) By the side; standing side by side.

collinus, -a, -um (kol-LYE-nus) Pertaining to or from a hill.

Colman, Sir Jeremiah (1859—1942) Eminent English patron of horticulture who

assembled an outstanding collection of orchids at Gatton Park, he pioneered in
many areas of orchid hybridization, especially in developing flowers of blue tones
and fine yellows.

Colmanara (kohl-man-AH-rah) A hybrid genus derived from Miltonia, Odontoglossum

and Oncidium, it was created in 1963 and named for Sir Jeremiah Colman.

coloratus, -a, -um (kol-or-AY-tus) Colored.

colossus (ko-LAHS-sus) Large; of gigantic size; colossal.

columnar (kuh-LUHM-ner) Column- or pillar-shaped.

column (KOL-uhm-n) The central organ of the orchid flower, formed by the union of
the stamens and pistils.

column foot (KOL-uhm-n foot) In some orchids, the extension of the base of the
column to which the lip is attached; part of a mentum (which see) when fused with
the lateral sepals.

column wings (KOL-uhm-n wingz) Flange-like appendages protruding from the

column of some orchid genera, such as Oncidium.

Compot: a typical community pot.

community pot (kuh-MYOO-ni-tee pot) A pot containing numerous small seedlings
of an orchid progeny, transplanted from a flask. See compot.

comatus, -a, -um (koh-MAY-tus) Furnished with hair; hairy.

communis, -e (ko-MEW-nis) Common; general; growing in company.

commutatus, -a, -um (ko-mew-TAY-tus) Changed, or changing.

comose (KOH-mose) Bearing a tuft or tufts of hair.

compactus, -a, -um (kom-PAK-tus) Compact; dense.

Comparettia (kom-pa-RET-ee-a) A genus of eight or nine species of epiphytic
orchids found chiefly in the Andes of Colombia and Ecuador (one species extending
to Mexico and the West Indies), allied to Trichocentrum and Ionopsis. It was founded
by Poeppig and Endlicher in 1835 to honor Sr. Andreo Comparetti, an eminent plant
physiologist and professor of botany of Padua, Italy.

complanatus, -a, -um (kom-plan-AY-tus) Flattened; leveled; complanate.

complexus, -a, -um (kom-PLEX-us) Encircled; embraced.

complicate (KOM-pli-kate) Folded over or back on itself.

compot (KOM-pot) A container with many seedlings in proximity prior to their

spacing and growing on as individual plantlets.

compound (KOM-pound) Composed of a number of similar parts or divided into a

number of similar divisions.

compressus, -a, -um (kom-PRESS-us) Flattened, especially laterally; compressed.

concavus, -a, -um (kon-KA-vus) Hollowed out, basin shaped, concave.

conchiformis, -e (kon-chee-FORM-is) In the form of a shell; shell-shaped;

conchiform.

concinnus, -a, -um (kon-SIN-nus) Neat; elegant; well-made.

concolor (KON-kol-or) Of the same color throughout; uniformity of hue in sepals and
petals.

conduplicate (kon-DOO-pli-kayt) Folded together lengthwise so both halves are

together at their faces; refers to character of leaves or petals within the bud.

confluent (kon-FLEW-ent) Merging into each other; blended into one; convergent.

conformis, -e (kon-FORM-is) Conforming to the type; similar to related species.

congeneric (kon-jen-AIR-ik) Belonging to the same genus.

congestus, -a, -um (kon-JEST-us) Crowded very closely together; collected into a
mass or body; congested.

conglomeratus, -a,-um (kon-glo-mer-AY-tus) Clustered; brought together;

conglomerate.

conical (kon-ih-kul) Cone-shaped.

conjugatus, -a, -um (kon-joo-GAY-tus) Joined in pairs; coupled; conjugate.

conjunctus, -a, -um (kon-JUNK-tus) Conjoined; joined together; conjunct.

connate (kon-nate) Having one organ attached wholly or in part to a like organ. For
instance fused lateral sepals.

connatus, -a, -um (kon-NAY-tus) United; twin; having similar organs joined together;
connate.

connective (kon-NEK-tiv) The tissue joining the two cells of the anther.

connivent (kon-NYE-vent) Said of organs that stick together but are not fused
(connate). Such parts appear to be fused but are actually free. Some Bulbophyllum
exhibit lateral sepals that are connivent.

conopseus, -a, -um (kon-OP-see-us) Resembling a gnat; canopied.

conspersus, -a, -um (kon-SPUR-sus) Scattered.

constrictus, -a, -um (kon-STRIK-tus) Drawn together; constricted.

convallarioides (kon-val-lar-ee-OY-deez) Resembling a Convallaria, or lily-of-the-

valley.

convex (kon-veks) Having a more or less rounded surface; bulging outward and
curved.

convolute (KON-vo-loot) Rolled up longitudinally.

cool-house (kool-hous) A greenhouse with minimum night temperature of 50
degrees F.

co-pigments (ko-pig-mentz) A type of flavonoid that is pale yellow to colorless and

complexes with the anthocyanin pigments to form the visible color that naturally
occurs within flowers.

coralloid (kor-al-loyd) Like coral.

Corallorhiza (kor-al-loh-RYE-zah) A genus of 15 species of saprophytic orchids

native chiefly to North America and Mexico but also found in Europe and Asia, allied
to Aplectrum and established by Robert Brown in 1813, the name describing the
coral-like appearance of the roots, hence the popular name of "coral-root."

cordatus, -a, -um (kor-DAY-tus) Heart-shaped; cordate.

coriaceus, -a, -um (kor-ee-AY-see-us) Leathery in texture; thick and tough;

coriaceous.

cork (kork) The bark of the cork oak, a generic term for plaques or slabs made of
cork.

cormatose (kor-mah-toze) Producing corms.

corm (korm) A swollen, fleshy bulb-like base of a stem, without scales and usually
subterranean.

corneus, -a, -um (kor-NEE-us) Horny; hard and very dense in texture; corneous.

corniculatus, -a, -um (kor-nik-yew-LAY-tus) Bearing or terminating in a small horn-

like protuberance or process; horned; corniculate.

cornigerus, -a, -um (kor-NIJ-er-us) Bearing or being furnished with horns.

cornu-cervi (kor-new-SIR-vee) Stag's horn; flattened like an anther.

cornucopiate (kor-nu-KOH-pee-ayt) Shaped like a cornucopia or horn of plenty.

cornutus, -a, -um (kor-NEW-tus) Horned, or horn-shaped; cornute.

corolla (ko-ROL-la) Combined term for all the petals; the inner of the two series of
floral segments, but the term is rarely used in reference to orchid flowers.

coronarius, -a, -um (ko-ro-NAYR-ee-us) Of or like a crown; used for or pertaining to

garlands; encircling like a crown.

correct name (kuh-rekt neym) The earliest legitimate name available for a plant
except as provided otherwise by the International Code of Botanical Nomenclature.

Correll, Donovan S. (1908—1993) American botanist, co-author with Oakes Ames of

the Orchidaceae for the Flora of Guatemala,(1952—1953, 1965) author of the
Orchids of North America (1950).

corrugatus, -a, -um (ko-roo-GAY-tus) Wrinkled or in folds; corrugated.

Coryanthes (ko-ree-AN-theez) A genus of 44 species of epiphytes with

extraordinary flowers from the American tropics commonly called bucket orchids,
related to Stanhopea and Gongora, it was described by Hooker in 1831, the name
derived from the Greek meaning "helmet flower" in reference to the helmet-shaped
epichile of the lip.

Corybas (KOR-ee-bus) The more than 100 terrestrial species in this genus are
widespread from the Himalayas to Australia with New Guinea the center of
distribution. Salisbury described the genus in 1807, naming it for the priest Korybas.

corymb (KOR-imb) A short and broad, more or less flat-topped flower cluster; a form
of centripetal inflorescence in which the outermost flowers expand first.

Corymborkis (KOR-imb-ORE-kiss) The six terrestrial species in this genus are

pantropical. Aubert du Petit Thouars established the genus in 1822. He derived the
generic name from two Greek words for "corymb", a type of inflorescence appearing
flattened or like an inverted duster and the outer flowers opening first, and "orchid" a
reference to the type of inflorescence found in the genus.

costatus, -a, -um (kos-TAY-tus) Ribbed, such as the midrib of a leaf; costate.
cotyledon (kot-i-LEE-don) The primary or rudimentary leaf of the embryo of plants.

Cranichis (KRAN-ih-kiss) Olaf Swartz founded the genus in 1788 and derived the
name from the Greek word for "helmet" to describe the unique lip on these flowers.
There are about 54 species of epiphytes and terrestrials in this genus native to
tropical Central and South America.

crassifolius, -a, -um (krass-i-FOH-lee-us) Thick-leaved.

crassinodis, -e (krass-i-NOH-dis) Having remarkably swollen joints, or nodes.

Cremastra (KREE-mass-tra) A terrestrial genus of possibly four species widely

distributed in Southeast Asia both in montane regions and at lower levels. Lindley
described the genus in 1833, and used the Greek word "flower stalk" to denote the
stalked ovary.

crenatus, -a, -um (kren-AY-tus) Having the margin cut into rounded scallops;
crenate.

crenulatus, -a, -um (kren-yew-LAY-tus) Shallowly scalloped; minutely crenate;

crenulate.

crepidatus, -a, -um (krep-i-DAY-tus) Shaped like an old-fashioned sandal or slipper.

crest (krest) A toothed, fringed or hairy thickened portion of the disc of the lip.

crested (krested) Bearing an elevated appendage or protruding fringes; furnished

with a crest.

cretaceus, -a, -um (kret-AY-see-us) Chalky white; pertaining to chalk.

criniferus, -a, -um (kri-NIFF-er-us) Hairy; bearing hairs.

crinitus, -a, -um (kri-NYE-tus) Having hairs upon the surface; furnished with long,
generally weak, hairs.

crispus, -a, -um (KRISP-us) Finely waved along the margin; closely curled; crisped.
cristagalli (kris-ta-GAL-lee) A specific name meaning cock's-comb.

cristatus, -a, -um (kris-TAY-tus) Crested; bearing a crest; cristate.

crock, crocks (krock, krocks) Small pieces of broken earthenware or flowerpots, or

other inert substances, placed in the bottom of a pot when repotting, to improve
drainage.

cross (kross) To transfer pollen from a flower of one plant to the flower of a different
plant; the progeny resulting from such pollination, or from similar pollinations.

cross-pollinate (kross-pol-in-ate) To transfer the pollen from one flower or plant to

the stigma of another flower or plant.

cruciatus, -a, -um (kroo-see-AY-tus) Cross-like or cross-shaped; in the form of a

cross.

Cruentum: a blood-red spoltch of lip color gives

Dendrobium cruentum its name
cruentus, -a, -um (kroo-EN-tus) The color of blood, or with blood-colored spots.

crumenatus, -a, -um (kroo-men-AY-tus) Purse-shaped.

Cryptochilus (KRIP-toh-KYE-luss) There are four species in this genus native to the
Himalayas, which may be either epiphytes or lithophytes. Wallich founded the genus
in 1826 and coined the name from two Greek words "hidden" and "lip" to describe
the lip that is hidden in the flower.
cryptogam (KRIP-toh-gam) A flowerless plant, such as fern, moss, fungus,
seaweed.

Cryptopus(KRIP-toh-pus) The islands of Madagascar and Mascarene are home to

the four epiphytic species in this genus. Lindley described it in 1824 and used the
Greek words "hidden" and "foot," as originally Lindley thought the stipe and viscidium
were hidden in the pouch.

Cryptostylis (KRIP-toh-STYE-liss) Brown first described this genus of about 23

terrestrial species that are widespread in tropical Asia from India to Australia. The
generic name was derived from the Greek words meaning "hidden" and "style" to
denote that the column is partially hidden by the lip.

crystallinus, -a, -um (kris-tal-LYE-nus) Resembling ice in solidity or translucency;

crystalline.

cucullatus, -a, -um (kew-kew-LAY-tus) Hooded or hood-shaped; having the margins

curved inward to resemble a hood; cucullate.

cucumerinus, -a, -um (kew-kew-mer-EYE-nus) Resembling a cucumber.

Cuitlauzina (KWEET-law-zee-na) This Mexican epiphytic genus was named in

1824 by La Llave and Lexaraza. They named it in honor of Cuitlantzin, the governor
of Itazpalapa Cuitlautzin in Mexico. Taxonomists consider it to have 1-4 species.

cultivar (KUHL-tih-vahr) (in orchids) An individual plant and its vegetative

propagations in cultivation; a horticultural variety.

cultivation (KUHL-tih-VAY-shun) The artful growing of a plant in a situation other

than its natural habitat.

cultratus, -a, -um (kul-TRAY-tus) Shaped like a knife blade.

Cuming, Hugh (1791—1865) English conchologist (the branch of biology devoted to

the study of the shells of mollusks) and orchid collector, who collected widely in
Chile, Polynesia and the Philippines.

cuneatus, -a, -um (kew-nee-AY-tus) Wedge-shaped or triangular, with the tapered

narrow end at the point of attachment.

Cunningham, Allan (1791—1839) Orchid collector (for the Royal Botanic Gardens at
Kew), who spent several years in Brazil and about six years in Australia, providing
orchid specimens for Lindley and other botanists.

cupreus, -a, -um (KEW-pree-us) Copper-colored; coppery.

cupuliform (KUP-ewe-lih-form) Shaped like a cup.

curtus, -a, -um (KER-tus) Shortened.

curvatus, -a, -um (ker-VAY-tus Curved.

curvifolius, -a, -um (ker-vi-FOH-lee-us) With curved leaves.

cuspidatus, -a, -um (kus-pi-DAY-tus) Tipped with a sharp rigid point; cuspidate.

cuticle (KEW-ti-kul) The outermost layer of the cells of the epidermis.

cutting (kuht-ing) A severed vegetative or asexual part of a plant used in

propagation. cyaneus, -a, -um (sy-AY-ne-us) Bright blue, azure.

Cycnoches (SIK-no-keez) A genus of tropical American epiphytic orchids with

about 36 species, related to Catasetum and Mormodes and described by Lindley in
1832. It is popularly known as the "swan orchid," the generic name alluding to the
gracefully arched column of the male flowers, which is indeed swanlike.

cylindricus, -a, -um (sil-IN-dri-kus) Long and slender, the horizontal section circular;
cylindrical.

Cymbidiella (sym-bid-ee-ELL-a) The three terrestrial or epiphytic species in

this genus are endemic to Madagascar. Rolfe established it in 1918 and chose the
diminutive form of Cymbidium because of the close resemblance of these two
genera.

Cymbidium (sim-BID-ee-um) An Asian genus more than 50 species of

horticulturally important orchids, found chiefly in the Indian Himalayas. It was
established by Swartz in 1799, the name derived from the Greek in allusion to the
boat-shaped lip.

cymbiformis, -e (sim-bi-FORM-iss) Boat-shaped; convex and keeled.

cyme (SIME) An inflorescence in which the primary axis bears a single central or
terminal flower that blooms first.

cymose (SYE-mohz) Resembling a cyme (see above)..

Cynorkis (sin-ORE-kiss) Madagascar and the Mascarenes are home to most of

the more than 100 terrestrial species in the genus, but there are 15 species are
native to Africa. Aubert du Petit Thouars described the genus in 1809, deriving the
name from the Greek words for "dog" and "testicle" in illusion to the small tubers.

Cypripedium (sip-ree-PEE-dee-um) The common lady's-slipper orchid, a genus

of about 64 terrestrial species and natural hybrids distributed in the North Temperate
Zone of both hemispheres, it was described by Linnaeus in 1753. The name,
incorrectly Latinized from the Greek meaning "Venus sandal," refers to the slipper-
like lip.

Cyrptarrhena (KRIP-tah-rehn-a) In 1816, Lindley described this epiphytic genus, of

about three species from Central America, South America and the West Indies. He
coined the name from the Greek words meaning "hidden" and "stamen," in reference
to the unusual column that hides the anther.

Cyrtochilum (sir-toh-KY-lum) A distinctive group of South American orchids usually

included in a broadly defined Oncidium, characterized by vinelike inflorescences and
narrowly floral segments, with about 125 species.

Cyrtopodium (sir-toh-POH-dee-um) A genus of 44 species of terrestrial, lithophytic

and epiphytic orchids of tropical America, popularly called "cow's-horn orchids,"
described in 1813 by Robert Brown. The name refers to the upcurved column-foot;
plants are noted for their large, colorful floral bracts.

Cyrtorchis (sir-TOR-kiss) A genus of 18 species of angraecoid orchids from tropical

Africa, primarily epiphytic. It was described by Schlechter in 1914, the name
probably alluding to the fleshy character of the floral segments.

cytokinin (sy-toh-KYN-in) A class of plant hormones.

cytogenetics (sye-toh-je-NET-iks) Study of the part played by cells in heredity,

mutation and evolution.

cytology (sye-TOL-oh-jee) The scientific study of cells, especially their formation,

structure and functions.

D
dactyloides (dak-til-OY-deez) Resembling fingers; fingerlike.

Dactylostalix (dak-til-oh-STAY-liks) This monotypic terrestrial genus is endemic to

Japan. H.G. Reichenbach described the genus in 1878, coining the name from two
Greek words for "finger" and "stake" to describe the fingerlike crest on the lip.

damp or damp down (damp, damp daun) To spray or sprinkle the walks, benches,
etc. of a greenhouse to cool it or to increase humidity without directly watering the
pots or plants.

damping off (damp-ing awf) The collapse of seedlings, usually caused by

infestations of the fungi Botrytis vulgaris or Phythium debaryanum.

Darwin, Charles (1809—1882) British naturalist whose theory of evolution by natural

selection was based in part on the results of his studies of orchids. His subsequent
opus, On the Various Contrivances by Which British Orchids are Fertilized by
Insects, laid the foundation for studying pollination biology in orchids.

Day, John (1824—1888) Influential orchid hobbyist of his time, he became famous
for his excellent orchid drawings and paintings, with nearly 3,000 illustrations of
cultivated orchids filling 17 books.

debilis, -e (DEB-ill-is) Weak; frail; not robust.

deciduous (di-SIJ-oo-uhs) The shedding of leaves or other organs at maturity or at
the end of the growing season; not permanent, transitory.

decipiens (de-SIP-iens) Deceptive; not obvious.

declinate (DEK-luh-neyt) Bent or curved downward or forward.

decorus, -a, -um (dek-OR-us) Decorative; becoming; comely.

decumbens (dee-KUM-benz) Reclining but with the growing end upright; decumbent.

decurrens (dee-KUR-enz) Extending down the stem or ovary below the point of
insertion; decurrent.

decurved (dee-KURVD) Curved downward.

decussate (dee-KUSS-ayt) Opposite leaves in four rows up and down the stem,
alternating in pairs at right angles.

deflexus, -a, -um (dee-FLEX-us) Bent abruptly downward; deflexed.

defoliation (dee-FOL-ee-ay-shun) The casting off or falling of the leaves.

dehiscens (dee-HISS-enz) Dehiscent; the splitting into definite parts by valves, slits
or pores, as the capsule or fruit of orchids.

delicatus, -a, -um (del-i-KAY-tus) Tender; delicate.

deltoideus, -a, -um (del-TOY-dee-us) Broadly triangular; shaped like the Greek letter
delta (D); deltoid.

dendricolus, -a, -um (den-DRI-koh-lus) Living on trees; epiphytic.

Dendrobium (den-DROH-bee-um) A genus of 900 species of tropical Asian and

Pacific epiphytic, lithophytic and terrestrial orchids, variable in plant structure,
established by Swartz in 1799, the name derived from the Greek for tree and life, in
reference to the epiphytic habit of the plants.
 Dendrochilum: Dendrochilum magnum is an example
of the genus.

Dendrochilum (den-droh-KYE-lum) A genus of 100 species of Asiatic orchids

related to Coelogyne. Noted for its long arching scapes with many flowers, it was
described by Blume in 1825, the name possibly referring to the epiphytic habit of the
plants.

dendrogram (DEN-droh-gram) A pictorial representation of presumed phylogenetic

history, a family tree.

dendroideus, -a, -um (den-DROY-dee-us) Treelike; tree-shaped; dendroid.

Dendrophylax (den-droh-FYE-laks) A genus of six species of leafless Antillean

monopodial orchids related to Angraecum, described in 1861 by Reichenbach, the
name alluding to the manner in which the roots surround the tree branch on which
the plant grows.

Densiflorum: Dendrobium densiflorum is a densely-

flowered species.
densiflorus, -a, -um (den-si-FLOR-us) Having the flowers densely clustered; densely
flowered.

densifolius, -a, -um (den-si-FOH-li-us) Densely leaved.

densus, -a, -um (DEN-sus) Thick; compact; dense.

dentatus, -a, -um (den-TAY-tus) Toothed; furnished with teeth; dentate.

denticulatus, -a, -um (den-tik-yew-LAY-tus) Minutely toothed; slightly dentate;

denticulate.

Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) (dee-ox-ee-RYE-bow-new-clay-ick As-id) The

primary genetic material of all cells contained within the chromosomes.

depauperatus, -a, -um (dee-paw-per-AY-tus) Imperfectly developed; lacking;

depauperate

depressus, -a, -um (dee-PRESS-us) Flattened; pressed down; depressed.

dependens (dee-PEND-enz) Hanging down; dependent.

descending (dee-SEND-ing) In a gradually downward direction.

desert cooler (DEZ-ert kool-er) The name for a commonly used self-contained
evaporative cooler.

determinate (dee-TUR-muh-neyt) Condition of inflorescence when the terminal

flower opens first and so terminates further elongation of the floral axis.

Dextrorse (DEK-strohs) Turning toward the right.

Di or Dis (DYE or Dihs) The Greek prefix for two.

Diacrium (see Caularthron)

diagnosis (dahy-uhg-NO-sis) The comparative statement, usually in Latin, that

typically appears with the description of a new taxon.
Dialaelia (die-ah-LEE-lee-ah; die-ah-LIE-lee-ah) A hybrid genus between Diacrium
and Laelia created in 1905. These hybrids are now called Caulaelia (Caularthron x
Laelia).

diandrous (dye-an-druhs) Having two anthers.

Diaphananthe (dye-ah-fah-AN-thee) A tropical African epiphytic genus of around 45

species. Schlechter described the genus in 1914, deriving the name from the Greek
words for "transparent" and "flower" to describe the almost-translucent flowers.

diaphanus, -a, -um (dye-AFF-an-us) Transparent or translucent; diaphanous.

dicarpellous (dye-KAR-pel-lus) Composed of two carpels.

Dichaea (dye-KEE-a) A medium-sized genus of pseudomonopodial epiphytic orchids

from tropical America, characterized by two ranks of short, flattened, closely set
leaves. It was described by Lindley in 1833, the name derived from the Greek
meaning two-fold in reference to the two ranks of leaves.

dichogamy (dye-KOG-ah-me) Having stamens and pistils maturing at different

times, thus avoiding self-pollination.

dichotomus, -a, -um (dye-KOT-oh-mus) Forked in pairs; repeatedly dividing into two
branches; dichotomous, as in a dichotomous key.

Dichroma: Encyclia dichroma flowers are two-colored.

dichromus, -a, -um (dye-KROH-mus) Two-colored; of two distinct colors.
diclinous (di-KLYN-us) Unisexual, having the androecium and gynoecium in
separate flowers.

dicotyledonous (dye-kot-i-LEE-don-us) Having two cotyledons.

didymus, -a, -um (DID-i-mus) Twin; found in pairs; somewhat two-parted.

differentiation (dif-fer-en-she-ay-shun) The physiological and morphological

changes that occur in a cell, tissue or organ during development to a different state.

Difforme: Epidendrum difforme flowers have an

unusual shape for the genus.
difformis, -e (di-FORM-is) Of unusual form in comparison with the normal for the
genus.

diffusus, -a, -um (dif-FEW-sus) Loosely branching or spreading; of open growth;

diffuse.

digitatus, -a, -um (dig-i-TAY-tus) Shaped like an open hand; finger-like; digitate.

dilatatus, -a, -um (dye-la-TAY-tus) Spread out; dilated.

Dillon, Gordon (1912—1982) Former editor of American Orchid Society Bulletin

(from 1943—1968, 1970—1973) and a former Executive Director of the Society (Ex.
Sec. 1950—1977, Ex. Dir. 1976).

Dilochia (dye-LOH-kee-ah) A small genus of epiphytic orchids from Southeast Asia,

related to Arundina; it was described by Lindley in 1830, the name alluding to the two
rows of bracts.
dimidiate (dye-MEE-dee-ayt) Said of an object having one half missing, halved.

dimorphus, -a, -um (dye-MOR-fuss) Having two dissimilar forms of leaf, flower or fruit
on the same plant.

Dimorphorchis (dye-MORF-ore-kiss) Borneo is home to the three epiphytic species

in this genus. Rolfe described the genus in 1919 and coined the name from the
Greek words meaning "two," "shape" and "orchid," to denote the two distinct types of
flowers borne on the same inflorescence.

dioecious (dye-EE-shus) Unisexual, with the male and female flowers on separate
plants.

Diothonea (dye-OH-thon-ee-a) A small epiphytic genus of approximately six species

found in tropical South America. First described in 1834 by Lindley, who used the
Greek words "two" and "sail" to describe the unique sail-like structure between the
column and lip.

diphyllus, -a, -um (dye-FILL-us) Having two leaves; diphyllous.

Diplocaulobium (dih-plo-caw-LOBE-ee-um) A primarily Australasian genus of about

100 species, formerly included in a broadly defined Dendrobium, known for its
ephemeral flowers.

diploid (DIP-loyd) Having a complement of two similar sets of chromosomes (2n)

Diploprora (dih-plo-PROR-a) The four epiphytic species in this genus range from
India and Sri Lanka east to Taiwan. Hooker identified the genus in 1890 and derived
the name from the Greek words meaning "two" and "prow" to describe the bifurcate
lip.

Dipodium (dye-POH-dee-um) A small genus of orchids of diverse vegetative

character from China, Southeast Asia and on through New Caledonia, it is related to
Cymbidium and was founded by Robert Brown in 1810, the name derived from the
Greek meaning "two little feet" in reference to the two stipes of the pollinia.

dipterus, -a, -um (DIP-ter-us) Two-winged; dipterous.

Disa (DYE-sa or DEE-sa) A large genus of terrestrial orchids found chiefly in
tropical and southern Africa, established by Bergius in 1767, the derivation of the
name being obscure, but the genus is noted for the beauty and unusual structure of
its flowers.

disc (disk) In orchids, the face or upper surface of the middle portion of the lip.

discolor (DIS-kol-or) Of two different and usually distinct colors.

discrete (dis-KREET) Separate, not coalescent.

Disperis (DIS-per-is) This genus of about 80 terrestrial species ranges from South
and tropical Africa east to New Guinea. Olaf Swartz described the genus in 1800,
coining the generic name from the Greek words meaning "two" and "wallet" to
denote the pouchlike lateral sepals found in some species.

dissectus, -a, -um (dis-SEK-tus) Divided into deep lobes or segments; deeply cut;
dissected.

distal (DIS-tul) Remote from the place of attachment.

Distichus: Isochilus linearis has distichus leaves.

distichus, -a, -um (DIS-tik-us) Arranged in two rows or ranks; distichous.

Diuris (dye-YEWR-is) A medium-sized genus of predominantly Australian terrestrial

orchids, described by J.E. Smith in 1798, popularly called "double tails," the name
referring to the two tail-like lateral sepals.
diurnus, -a, -um (dye-URN-us) Of the daytime; with flowers open during the day;
diurnal.

divaricatus, -a, -um (dye-vayr-i-KAY-tus) Separated by a wide angle; widely

spreading; divaricate.

divergens (dy-VERJ-enz) Spreading out widely; divergent.

divisus, -a, -um (di-VYE-sus) Separated to the base; divided.

division (di-vihz-uhn) The technique of propagating plants by cutting or breaking

apart the pseudobulbs or stems at the rhizome; a single propagation derived in that
manner.

dixanthus, -a, -um (dye-ZAN-thus) Having flowers of two shades of yellow.

dm (decimeter) A measure of length equal to 3.937 inches or 10 centimeters.

dolabriformis, -e (doh-lab-ri-FORM-is) Hatchet-shaped.

dolosus, -a, -um (doh-LOH-sus) Deceitful; appearing like some other plant.

dominant (DOM-uh-nuhnt) Said of an allele (any of several forms of a gene

responsible for hereditary variation....see allele) that expresses itself relative to its
sister allele.

domingensis, -e (doh-min-GEN-sis) Native of Santo Domingo (now the Dominican

Republic)

Domingoa (doh-ming-GOH-ah) A small genus of epiphytic orchids from the

West Indies, related to Laelia, established by Schlechter in 1913. The name is
derived from Santo Domingo, former name of the Dominican Republic.

Dominy, John (1816—1891) British nurseryman and orchid grower for the firm of
James Veitch & Sons, he was the first to breed and flower an artificial orchid hybrid,
Calanthe Dominyi, in 1856.

Doritaenopsis (doh-rye-tee-NOP-sis) A hybrid genus between Doritis and

Phalaenopsis created in 1923.
Doritis (doh-RYE-tis) A genus of three terrestrial vandaceous orchids, closely
related to Phalaenopsis, sparsely distributed throughout Southeast Asia and
Sumatra. It was described by Lindley in 1833, the name referring to Doritis, one of
names for the goddess Aphrodite. Recently transferred to Phalaenpsis by
Christenson.

dorsal (DAWR-suhl) Referring to the upper surface of an organ such as a leaf; that
surface turned away from the axis; opposite of ventral.

Dossinia (doss-IN-ee-ah) A monotypic genus of terrestrial orchids from Borneo.

Called "Jewel Orchids" because of the dazzling beauty of the foliage, it was found by
E. Morren in 1848, the name in compliment to the Belgian botanist E.P. Dossin
(1777—1852)

double (DUHB-uhl) Said of flowers that have more than the usual number of floral
envelopes, particularly of petals.

downy (DOW-nee) Covered with very short and weak soft hairs.

draco (DRAY-ko) Specific name meaning a dragon.

Dracula (DRACK-yule-ah) A large genus of more than 100 phantasmagoric

Neotropical species, related to Masdevallia.

Drakaea (DRAYK-ee-a) A genus of four species of terrestrial orchids limited to

Western Australia, allied to Caleana and Spiculaea. It was established by Lindley in
1839, honoring the botanical artist Miss S.A. Drake, who drew many of the plates for
Bateman's monumental volume, The Orchidaceae of Mexico and Guatemala.

Dresslerella (dress-LER-ell-a) There are eight epiphytic species in this genus

that ranges from Nicaragua south to Peru. In 1970, Luer established the genus, a
segregate from Pleurothallis, naming it in honor of Robert Dressler, PhD.

Dressleria (dress-LER-ee-ah) In 1975, Dodson established this genus of three

epiphytic species that are similar to Catasetum. The genus ranges from Nicaragua to
northern South America and was named in honor of Robert Dressler, PhD.

Dryadella (dry-ah-DELL-ah) About 40 species compose this Neotropical

genus of miniature caespitose epiphytes previously included in a broadly defined
Masdevallia.

dubiosus, -a, -um (doo-bee-OH-sus) Doubtful; not in conformity to the pattern of the
genus; dubious.

dulcis, -e (DULL-sis) Sweet.

dumosus, -a, -um (doo-MOH-sus) Low and branching, as a bush; bushy; shrubby.

dunensis, -e (doo-NEN-sis) Of or pertaining to sand dunes.

Dungs, F. (1915—1977) Noted Brazilian orchidologist and coauthor with Pabst of the
exhaustive work Orchidaceae Braziliensis.

duplicate (DOO-pli-kit) Double or doubled over, as the two similar sides of a leaf.

Duthie, John Firminger (1845—1922) British botanist responsible for the

monumental The Orchids of North-Western Himalaya.

Dyakia (dye-ACK-ee-ah) A monotypic epiphytic monopodial genus from Borneo.

Christenson described the genus in 1986, using the Malay name Dyak in honor of
the indigenous people of Borneo.

E
E- A lack of (Latin prefix).

Earina (EER-ee-nah) A genus of seven species of epiphytes from New Zealand and
other Pacific Islands, related to Glomera and other genera seldom seen in
cultivation. It was described by Lindley in 1842, the name referring to the species'
spring flowering.
ebracteatus, -a, -um (ee-brak-tee-AY-tus) Without bracts; ebracteate.

Eburneum: Angraecum eburneum has an ivory-white

lip.
eburneus, -a, -um (ee-BURN-ee-us) Ivory-like; ivory-white.

ecalcarate (ee-KAL-kar-ayt) Without calcar or spur.

ecallose (ee-KAL-lohz) Without a callus; lacking any protuberance.

echinatus, -a, -um (ek-in-AY-tus) Furnished with prickles or bristles; spiny; echinate.

echinocarpus, -a, -um A spiny or echinate fruit.

ecology (ih-KOL-uh-jee) That branch of biology that deals with the mutual
interaction between organisms and their environment.

ecornutus, -a, -um (ee-kor-NEW-tus) Without horns; ecornute.

ecostate (ee-KOS-tayt) Without ribs.

ecotype (EE-ko-type) Plants of a genetically stabilized modification to a variant

ecology such as dwarfed individuals from a relatively more xeromorphic habitat.

edaphic (ee-DAFF-ik) Relating to soil and topography, rather than climate.

edentate (ee-DEN-tayt) Without teeth.

effusus, -a, -um (ef-FEW-sus) Loosely spreading; very diffuse; effuse.

eglandulose (ee-GLAND-yew-lohz) Without glands.

elatus, -a, -um (e-LAY-tus) Tall; taller than the parts or organs of the plant would lead
us to expect, or tall in comparison with its near allies.

elatior (el-AY-tee-or) Taller.

elegans (EL-e-ganz) Very choice and attractive; worthy of being chosen; elegant.

Elleanthus (el-lee-AN-thus) A genus of 115 species of tropical American

epiphytic orchids, vegetatively similar to its nearest relative, Sobralia, but bearing a
number of small flowers in a head or short raceme. It was described by the Czech
botanist Presl in 1827, the name presumably dedicated to Helle or Helena.

ellipsoid (ih-LIP-soyd) An elongate solid, elliptical in all sections along the

transverse axis and circular in cross-section.

elliptic (ih-LIP-tick) An oval, equally narrowed to rounded ends.

elongate (ee-LONG-ayt) Drawn out in length; lengthened.

emarginatus, -a, -um (ee-mar-jin-AY-tus) Having a shallow notch at the apex;

emarginate.

embryo (em-BREE-oh) The zygote or developing plantlet in the seed.

Embreea (em-BREE-ah) A monotypic genus, a segregate of Stanhopea, native to

Colombia and Ecuador. Dodson established the genus in 1980, naming it in honor of
Alvin Embree, one of Dodson's supporters.

Encyclia (en-SIK-lee-ah) A genus of about 240 Neotropical species previously

included in a broadly defined Epidendrum, sometimes known in horticulture as
bulbous epidendrums. Hooker described the genus in 1828, but it wasn't until studies
by Dressler in 1961 that the genus was truly established.

endemic (en-DEM-ik) Native to a particular region, as a country or an island, and not

found elsewhere.

endocarp (EN-doh-carp) The inner layer of the wall of a ripened fruit.

endogenous (en-DOJ-uh-nuhs) Growing or developing from or on the inside.

endosperm (EN-do-spurm) Starch or other food outside or around the embryo;

albumen; nutritive matter in seed plant ovules; absent in most orchids.

ensatus, -a, -um (en-SAY-tus) Sword-shaped.

ensifolius, -a, -um (en-si-FOH-lee-us) Having sword-shaped leaves.

ensiformis, -e (en-si-FORM-is) Straight, with a sharp point like a sword; ensiform.

entire (en-TYE-er) In reference to the floral segments and leafblade, having the
margin continuous, not broken with teeth or serrations.

entomophilus, -a, -um (ent-oh-MOFF-ill-us) Insect-loving; a specific name applied to

certain plants that attract insects; entomophilous.

entomophily (en-toh-MOFF-ill-ee) Pollination through the agency of insects.

environment (en-vahy-ern-muhnt) The aggregate of surrounding things, conditions

and influences.

ephemeral (e-FEM-er-al) Lasting for only a brief period; transitory.

epi- A Greek prefix signifying "on" or "upon."

epicalyx (ep-ee-KAY-licks) A series of bracts, resembling or near the calyx

Epicattleya (ep-i-CAT-lee-ah) A hybrid genus between Epidendrum and Cattleya

created in 1888. Most Epicattleya hybrids are actually Catyclia (Encyclia x Cattleya)
hybrids and have now been transferred to that genus.

epicarp (EP-i-karp) The outer layer or surface of the pericarp, as the rind or peel of
some fruits.

Epichile: Stanhopea oculata showing the epichile.

epichile (EP-i-kyle) The terminal part of the jointed lip of some orchids such as
Stanhopea.

Epidanthus (ep-ee-DAN-thus) There are three epiphytic species in this genus

ranging from Mexico to Panama. Williams described the genus in 1940. The name
was derived partially from the Greek and means flowers like Epidendrum.

epidendroides (e-pi-den-DROY-deez) Resembling an Epidendrum.

Epidendrum (eh-pi-DEN-drum) A genus of 800 species of tropical American

orchids closely related to Laelia and Cattleya, the generic name having been used
by Linnaeus in 1753 in reference to the epiphytic habit of the plants and originally
including a number of concepts now referred to different genera of epiphytic orchids.

epidermis (ep-ee-DER-miss) The outermost layer of cellular tissue enveloping the

entire plant body, functioning as a protective covering and as a control against loss
of water.

epigaeus, -a, -um (eh-pi-JEE-us) Growing close to the ground; epigeous.

Epigeneium (eh-pi-JEE-nee-um) A genus of 12 species of epiphytic orchids

from the Asiatic tropics, related to Dendrobium and formerly placed in either
Dendrobium or Sarcopodium. Established by French botanist Gagnepain in 1932,
the name means "upon the chin" and refers to the position of the petals and lateral
sepals on the column foot.
epigynous (ih-PIJ-uh-nuhs) Growing on top of the ovary.

Epipactis (eh-pi-PAK-tis) A genus of 21 species of circumboreal terrestrial orchids

related to Cephalanthera, established in 1800 by Swartz, who employed an ancient
name originally used by Theophrastus (370?285 BC)

epiparasitic (ep-i-pair-ah-SIT-ick) Said of organisms such as saprophytic orchids

that are not primary saprophytes but instead live as parasites upon wholly
saprophytic fungal symbionts.

epiphyte (EP-i-fite) A plant that naturally grows on another plant or other means of
support above the earth's soil but, in contrast to parasitic, deriving its needed
moisture from the air.

epiphytic (ep-i-FIT-ik) Pertaining to an epiphyte; having the character of an

epiphyte.

Epistephium: Epistephium hernandii photographed in

Venezuela's Gran Sabana.

Epistephium (eh-pi-STEEF-ee-um) A genus of 14 species of terrestrial orchids

from South America (chiefly Brazil) with brilliant purple Cattleya-like flowers, related
to Sobralia and to Vanilla. It was described by Humboldt, Bonpland and Kunth in
1822, from the Greek meaning garlanded, referring to the crown-like swelling at the
tip of the ovary.

epseudobulbous (ee-soo-doh-BUL-bus) Without pseudobulbs.

equalis, -e (ee-KWAY-lis) Equal.

equestris, -e (ee-KWES-tris) Knightly, courteous, very handsome; pertaining to a
horse, or like the rider of a horse.

Equitant: Psygmorchis pusilla has equitant foliage.

equitant (EK-kwi-tant) Said of conduplicate leaves that overlap each other in two
ranks, as in Oberonia, Psygmorchis and Tolumnia (equitant oncidiums).

erectus, -a, -um (er-REK-tus) Upright; erect.

Eria (EAR-ee-a) A genus of 500 epiphytic species of Asiatic orchids closely

related to Dendrobium, described in 1825 by Lindley, the name alluding to the woolly
outer surface of the sepals and petals.

ericoides (e-ri-KOY-deez) Resembling Erica or heather.

erinaceus, -a, -um (e-rin-AY-see-us) Resembling a hedgehog; spiny; erinaceous.

Eriopsis (ear-ee-OP-siss) A genus of four species of tropical American

epiphytic orchids with close affinity to Acineta and Coeliopsis, described by Lindley in
1847. The name is derived from the Greek, meaning resembling Eria, a genus to
which it is but distantly related.

erosus, -a,-um (ee-ROH-sus) Jagged, as if gnawed; having a ragged edge; erose.

erostrate (e-ROSS-trayt) Without a beak.

erubescens (e-roo-BESS-enz) Blushing; growing rosy red.

Erycina (err-ee-SEE-nah) The two epiphytic species in this genus are found in
Mexico. Lindley described the genus in 1853, naming it in honor of Erycina, the
Aphrodite of Mt. Eryx, in Sicily.

Erythrodes (err-i-THROH-deez) A genus of 60 species of terrestrial orchids found in

the tropics and subtropics of both hemispheres related to Goodyera and described
by Blume in 1825, the name referring to the reddish color of the flowers of many of
the species.

erythrocarpus, -a, -um (e-ri-thro-KAR-pus) Having red fruit.

esculentus, -a, -um (es-kew-LEN-tus) Edible; related to eating.

estriatus, -a, -um (es-tri-AY-tus) Without stripes.

Esmeralda (es-mer-ALL-duh) H.G. Reichenbach described this genus in 1874,

using the Greek word meaning "emerald green," possibly a reference to the deep
green foliage. There are two species growing either terrestrially or lithophytically that
are native from the Himalayas east to southern China.

ethylene (ETH-ill-een) A gas that acts as a hormone signaling numerous physiologic

changes including flower senescence.

etiolation (ee-ti-o-LAY-shun) Effect on green plant from loss of chlorophyll through

exclusion of light, the normally green tissue becoming white or yellow by unmasking
of carotenoids within the chloroplasts.
 Euanthe: Euanthe sanderiana is the single species in
the genus.

Euanthe (yew-AN-thee) A monotypic genus established by Schlechter in 1914

to accommodate the species most widely accepted as Vanda sanderiana, the
distinction from Vanda being based on recondite characters in the structure of the lip.

Eulophia: Eulophia alta can be found on several

continents.
Eulophia (yew-LOH-fee-ah) A genus of 200 species of terrestrial orchids related to
Cyrtopodium, widespread throughout the Old World tropics with a single species in
the Americas. Described in 1823 by Robert Brown, the name refers to the crest on
the lip.

Eulophidium (yew-loh-FID-ee-um) A later name for a genus of chiefly terrestrial

orchids from tropical Africa and Madagascar (with one species throughout the
Americas), now placed in Oeceoclades. Described by Pfitzer in 1888, the name is a
diminutive for Eulophia and refers to its presumed relationship with that genus.

Eulophiella (yew-loh-fee-EL-lah) A small genus of epiphytic orchids from the island of

Madagascar, somewhat allied with Cyrtopodium. Described by Rolfe in 1891, the
name is a diminutive of Eulophia.

europaeus, -a, -um (yoor-o-PEE-us) European.

evanescent (ev-a-NESS-sent) Short-lived; not lasting for a long period.

evaporative cooler (ih-vap-ruh-tive kool-er) A mechanism that cools air by the

evaporation of water. See desert cooler.

evectus, -a, -um (e-VEK-tus) Exalted, proud, stately.

evergreen (eh-ver-green) Retaining green foliage all the year, as certain species of
Dendrobium, in contrast to those that are deciduous.

evertus, -a, -um (ee-VERT-us) Turned inside out.

exaltatus, -a, -um (eks-all-TAY-tus) Very tall; lofty; exalted.

exasperatus, -a, -um (eks-as-per-AY-tus) Roughened; having a rough surface.

excavatus, -a, -um (eks-kav-AY-tus) Hollowed out.

excellens (eks-SELL-enz) Excelling; excellent.

excelsior (ex-SELL-see-or) A shaved-wood product used to provide surface area in

evaporative coolers.

excelsus, -a, -um (eks-SELL-sus) Tall.

excentric (ik-SEN-trik) One sided or off center.

excisus, -a, -um (eks-SYE-sus) Cutaway; cut out; excise.

excrescences (eks-KRESS-en-ses) Small warty outgrowths.

excurrent (ik-SKUR-uhnt) Said of a leaf base that extends beyond the margin of the
blade.
exfoliating (ex-FOL-ee-ayt-ing) Peeling off in thin layers.

exiguus, -a, -um (eks-IG-yew-us) Very little; meager; poor.

eximius, -a, -um (eks-IM-ee-us) Out of the ordinary; distinguished.

exine (EKS-ine) The outer layer of a pollen grain.

exocary (EKS-oh-kary) The outer layer of the pericarp.

exotic (ek-ZOTT-ik) Not native, foreign.

expansus, -a, -um (eks-PAN-sus) Expanded.

explant (EKS-plant) A small piece of tissue removed from a donor plant and placed
in tissue culture.

explante (EKS-plant-ay) Lying flat.

exserted (ek-SER-ted) Projecting beyond a common point.

exsiccated (EK-sik-kay-ted) Dried; having the moisture removed.

extrorse (eks-TRORS) Looking or facing outward.

exudans (EKS-yew-danz) Exuding.

eye The incipient bud of a vegetative growth, particularly in sympodial orchids.

F
FCC/AOS An American Orchid Society flower award denoting a First Class
Certificate, awarded to an orchid species or hybrid that scores 90 points or more out
of a possible 100 points.
 Falcate: Cattleya granulosa has falcate lateral sepals.
falcate (FAL-kayt) Scythe-shaped; curved and flat, tapering gradually.

family (FAM-uh-lee) The usual major subdivision of an order or suborder, commonly

comprising a plurality of related genera; ending with -aceae as in Orchidaceae.

fallax (FAL-laks) Deceptive; false; fallacious.

fan and pad A greenhouse cooling system that consists of a moistened high surface
area pad on one wall in conjunction with exhaust fans on an opposing wall, the air
being cooled by evaporation.

farinaceus, -a, -um (fa-ri-NAY-see-us) Containing starch, or starch-like materials;

mealy, like flour; farinaceous.

farinosus, -a, -um (fa-ri-NOH-sus) Covered with meal-like powder; mealy; powdery;
farinose.

fasciation (fa-see-AY-shun) A malformation caused by an abnormal growing point,

the expanded mass often called a crested, the plant a "crested" form.

fasciatus, -a, -um (fa-see-AY-tus) Bound together; clustered or grouped into bundles;
fasciated.

fascicle (FAS-i-kul) A close cluster or bundle of flowers, leaves, stems or roots.

fascicularis, -e (fa-sik-yew-LAIR-is) In close bundles or clusters.

fascinator (fa-si-NAY-tor) Unusually attractive; fascinating.

fastigiatus, -a, -um (fa-sti-jee-AY-tus) Having branches close together and erect,
often forming a column; fastigiate.

faveolate (fah-VEE-oh-layt) Honey-combed.

fecundation (fee-kun-DAY-shun) Fertilization of the female by the male to form a

new individual; impregnation.

feminine (fem-in-in) Pistillate (in higher plants); possessing the female sex
apparatus.

fenestralis, -e (fen-neh-STRAY-lis) Pierced or furnished with window-like openings;

fenestrate.

fermate (FER-mayt) An organic fungicide, ferric dimethyl dithiocarbonate, useful as

a spray or dust to combat leaf spot, stem rot, root rot and similar infectious diseases.

Fernandezia (fur-nan-DEEZ-ee-ah) A genus of about 10 species of Andean,

montane, pseudo-monopodial orchids known for their striking red-orange flowers.

ferrugineus, -a, -um (fer-roo-JIN-ee-us) Rust-colored; rusty; ferrugineous.

fertilis, -e (FER-till-is) Capable of producing numerous seeds or viable pollen; fruitful;

fertile.

fertilization (fer-till-eye-ZAY-shun) (1) The fusion of two gametes to form a new

individual (zygote); the effect of pollination, resulting in the conversion of the flower
into fruit and of the ovules into seed. (2) The application of nutrients to the growing
medium.

fertilizer (fer-till-EYE-zer) A substance, organic or inorganic, that provides nutritional

elements necessary to plant growth; a plant food.

ferus, -a, -um (FER-us) Wild.

festivus, -a, -um (FES-ti-vus) Beautiful; gay; bright; festive.

fetidus, -a, -um (FET-i-dus) Having a disagreeable odor; fetid. (See also foetid)

fibrillosus, -a, -um (fib-ri-LOH-sus) Composed of fine fibers or threads; fibrous;

fibrillose.

fibrosus, -a, -um (fye-BROH-sus) Composed of or resembling fibers; the texture of

roots as in Listera; fibrous.

filament (fill-ah-ment) The threadlike support of the anther; threadlike.

filiformis, -e (fil-i-FOR-mis) Long, slender and flexible.

Fimbriatum: Caasetum fimbriatum, named for its

fringed lip.
fimbriatus, -a, -um (fim-bree-AY-tus) Fringed; fimbriate.

fimbrillate (FIM-bril-layt) Minutely fringed; fimbrillose.

Finet, Achille (1862–1913) A French botanist who worked on the orchids of China
and Japan and contributed substantially to our knowledge of angraecoid orchids. He
is commemorated in the genus Neofinetia.

fir bark A potting medium consisting of the chopped or ground bark of white fir, red
fir or Douglas fir.

fissile (fiss-eye-l) Splitting.

fistularis, -e (fist-yew-LAIR-is) Cylindrical and hollow; fistulous.

Fitch, Walter Hood (1817–1892) Outstanding botanical artist who was sole illustrator
for Curtis' Botanical Magazine from 1834–1877. His admirable lithographs of orchids
have appeared in Hooker's A Century of Orchidaceous Plants (1854), Bateman's
Second Century of Orchidaceous Plants (1867), Bateman's Monograph of
Odontoglossum (1864–1874) and Warner's Select Orchidaceous Plants (1862–
1891).

Fitch, John Nugent (1840–1927) Nephew of Walter Hood Fitch, he continued his
uncle's work after his death, lithographing plates for Curtis' Botanical Magazine in a
similar manner. He produced all the original drawings for The Orchid Album (1882–
1897).

Fitzgerald, Robert D. (1830–1892) Deputy Surveyor-General of New South Wales,

Australia, he was a keen amateur botanist who wrote and illustrated the monumental
publication Australian Orchids, (1875–1888), the first comprehensive treatment of
the native orchids of Australia.

Flabellata: Aerides flabellata, has a fan-shaped lip.

flabellatus, -a, -um (fla-bel-LAY-tus) Fan-shaped; flabellate; flabelliform.

flaccidus, -a, -um (FLAS-si-dus) Weak, drooping, usually applied to flower stems;
soft, lax, not rigid.

flagelliformis, -e (fla-jell-i-FOR-mis) Whip-form; long and slender like a lash;

flagelliform.

flask (1) Any clear container used in the germination of orchid seed and other forms
of micropropagation; (2) To sow orchid seed or to transplant seedlings into such a
container.
flasking The process of sowing orchid seed or transplanting seedlings or other
tissue into a flask.

flat Shallow tray or box, usually of plastic, in which small seedlings are grown in
quantity.

flavescens (fla-VEH-senz) Yellowish; turning yellow; flavescent.

flavidus, -a, -um (FLAY-vi-dus) Yellow; flavid.

Flava: Cattleya flava, has yellow flowers.

flavus, -a, -um (FLAY-vus) Yellow; flavid.

flexuosus, -a, -um (flek-shoo-OH-sus) Bending alternately in opposite directions.

Flickingeria (flik-in-GEER-ee-ah) A widespread Asiatic genus with 75 species

characterized by ephemeral flowers, formerly known as Ephemerantha, and now
included in the revised genus Dendrobium.

floccose (FLOK-ohs) Having tufts of wooly hair.

flora The plant composition of a given region; also a book describing this
composition.

floralis, -e (floor-RAY-liss) Of or pertaining to the flower; floral.

floriculture The art and science of growing flowers.

floridus, -a, -um (FLOOR-i-dus) Literally flowering and thence flourishing; bright,
florid.

floriferous Flower-bearing; blooming freely.

florula (floor-UHL-ah) Literally a small flora, referring to a flora of a relatively small

area such as a nature preserve.

foetid (FEE-tid) With a disagreeable odor; fetid.

foliaceus, -a, -um (foh-lee-AY-see-us) Resembling a leaf in texture and appearance;

bearing leaves; foliaceous.

foliaceous bract (foh-lee-AYE-shuss brackt) A bract that is broad, green and leaf-
like, the leaf-like structure subtending the pseudobulb in genera such as Brassia and
Miltonia.

foliage (foll-ee-ayg) Leaves.

-foliate (foll-ee-ayt) In combinations, -leaved; having leaves; as trifoliate, "three-

leaved."

foliosus, -a, -um (foh-lee-OH-sus) Leafy; foliose.

-foliolate (FOH-lee-o-layt) Having leaflets; as trifoliolate; "of three leaflets."

foot (of column) An extension of the base of the column beyond its point of
attachment to the pedicel, or flower stem.

foot-candle A unit of illumination equivalent to that produced by a standard candle

at the distance of one foot.

foramen (foh-RAY-men) An aperture or opening.

forcing (fore-sing) To hasten flower production by artificial means.

forked Branching or divided into nearly equal parts or members.

form A taxonomic designation referring to randomly occurring infrequent variants
such as albinos.

formosanus, -a, -um (for-mo-SAY-nus) From the island of Formosa.

Formosum: Dendrobium formosum has beautiful

flowers.
formosus, -a, -um (for-MOH-sus) Very beautiful in shape; therefore, strikingly
ornamental.

formula (fore-MEW-luh) (in hybrids) The names of the two parents connected by the
multiplication sign ´; the seed parent listed first, then the pollen donor.

fornicatus, -a, -um (for-ni-KAY-tus) Arched; fornicate.

Fowlie, Jack (1929—1993) Taxonomist and editor of the Orchid Digest (1967—1993)

fractiflex (FRAK-ti-fleks) Zig-zag.

fragrans (FRAY-granz) Sweet-scented.

free Not joined to other organs; as petals free from the stamens, calyx or
themselves.

fringed (FRINJD) Furnished with hair-like appendages on the margins.

frond (FRAHND) Leaf of fern; sometimes used in the sense of foliage.

fructification (fruk-ti-fi-KAY-shun) The act or process of fruiting; also the fruiting

organ or organs.

fruit (frewt) The seed-bearing organ of a plant.

fruticosus, -a, -um (froo-ti-KOH-sus) Shrubby or shrub-like in the sense of being

woody; fruiticose.

fugacious (few-GAY-shus) Falling away or fading very early; transitory.

fulvus, -a, -um (FULL-vus) Tawny; fulvous.

fungicide (FUN-gi-syde) The class of chemicals that are used to destroy fungi.

furcatus, -a, -um (fer-KAY-tus) Forked or two-horned; furcate.

furfuraceus, -a, -um (fer-fer-AY-see-us) Scurfy; scaly, furfuraceous.

furrowed (fur-ROW-d) With longitudinal channels or grooves.

fuscatus, -a, -um (fus-KAY-tus) Brownish; dark; dusky; fuscous.

fusiformis, -e (few-si-FOR-mis) Spindle-shaped; narrowed both ways from a swollen

middle; fusiform

Galeandra: Galeandra dives is from northern South

America.
Galeandra (gal-ee-AN-dra) A genus of 25 species of epiphytic or terrestrial
orchids from the American tropics and described by Lindley in 1830, the name
referring to the helmet-shaped anther cap.

galeatus –a, -um (gal-ee-AY-tus) Helmet-shaped; galeate.

Galeottia (gal-ee-OHT-tee-ah) A genus of 11 showy Neotropical epiphytic species

related to Zygopetalum, formerly known as Mendoncella. Originally described by
Roberts in 1845, but changed to Mendoncella in 1963, then revived by Christenson
in 1988 as a valid genus.

gamete (GAM-eet) One of the sex-cells, either sperm or egg.

gamopetalus (gam-oh-PET-a-lus) Having a corolla of one piece; petals united.

gamophyllous (gam-oh-FILL-us) Having the leaves united.

gamosepalous (gam-oh-SEP-a-lus) Having the calyx of one piece; sepals united.

Gastrochilus (gas-troh-KYE-lus) A genus of 20 species of Asiatic epiphytes

from southern India to the Philippines, related to Haraella. Described by David Don
in 1825, the name alludes to the belly-shaped lip of the flowers in this genus.
Gastrochilus has often been included in an overly broad Saccolabium.

Gastrorchis: Gastrorchis francoisii is from Madagascar.

Gastrorchis (gas-TRORK-is) A genus of six species of semiterrestrial orchids

from Madagascar and the Mascarene Islands, related to and sometimes included in
Phaius. First proposed by du Petit-Thouars in 1809, the name refers to the basally
inflated or saccate lip of the flowers. Sometimes seen spelled Gastorchis.

gelidus, -a, -um (JEL-i-dus) From icy-cold regions.

Gelrite (JELL-ryte) One of several synthetic agars used to gel media used in
micropropagation.

genome (JEE-nohm) The set of chromosomes containing all the inherited traits.

Genyorchis (jen-EE-ore-kiss) The six epiphytic orchids in this genus are found in
Tropical Africa. Schlechter established the genus in 1901. He coined the generic
name from two Greek words meaning "jaw" and "orchid," as the flower in side view
resembles an open jaw.

Geodorum (jee-oh-DORE-um) The 10 terrestrial species of this genus are

widespread in Southeast Asia, from India to Australia to the southwest Pacific
Islands. Jackson described the genus in 1810 using the Greek words meaning
"ground" and "gift" to denote the inflorescence that curves toward the ground.

germ cells (jurm selz) Cell types that give to or are the reproductive cells (e.g.,
pollen or egg).

geminatus, -a, -um (jem-i-NAY-tus) In pairs; twin; geminate.

gemma (JEM-a) A bud; particularly a bud or bud-like structure by which a plant

propagates.

gemmule (JEM-yewl) A little bud or bud-like structure.

gene A portion of a chromosome that is a physical unit concerned with the

transmission and development of a hereditary character(s)

genera (JEN-e-ra) Plural of genus.

generation (jen-e-RAY-shun) Period from fertilization to death; the epoch from one
1-celled stage of a plant to the next 1-celled stage.

generic (je-NER-ik) Of or pertaining to a genus.

genetics (je-NET-iks) The study and science of heredity and variation; (singular),
pertaining to genesis or origin.

geniculatus, -a, -um (je-nik-yew-LAY-tus) Bent abruptly, like a knee; geniculate.

genotype (JEE-noh-type) The fundamental hereditary makeup of an organism.

genus (JEE-nus), pl. genera (JEN-e-ra) A subdivision of a family consisting of one or

more species that show similar characteristics and have an assumed common
ancestry.

German peat moss (jur-muhn peet moss) A coarse, chunky peat moss used in
potting media to retain moisture without significantly decreasing aeration.

germination (jur-min-ay-shun) The development of an embryo into a plantlet or

individual plant.

gibbosus, -a, -um (gib-BOH-sus) Protuberant or swollen on one side; gibbous.

giganteus, -a, -um (jye-gan-TEE-us) Greatly exceeding its congeners in size and
stature; extremely large; gigantic.

gigas (JYE-gas) A giant, in allusion to size, either of plant or flower.

glabratus, -a, -um (glab-RAY-tus) Nearly glabrous, or becoming glabrous with

maturity or age; smooth; glabrate.

glabrous (GLAY-brus) Smooth, having a surface without hairs or projections.

gladiatus, -a, -um (glad-ee-AY-tus) Having sword-shaped foliage; swordlike; gladiate.

gland (gland) Properly, a secreting part or prominence of appendage, but often used
in the sense of gland-like.

glandular (gland-U-lahr) Bearing glands or of the nature of a gland; pertaining to or

resembling a gland.
glanduliferous (gland-U-lih-FUR-us) Having glands.

glaucescent (glaw-sess-ent) Being glaucous.

glaucophyllus, -a, -um (glaw-koh-FILL-us) Having grayish or bluish-green leaves;

having a bloom on the leaves.

glaucus: Rhyncholaelia digbyana has glaucus foliage.

glaucus, -a, -um (GLAW-kus) Covered with a bluish-gray, bluish-green, or whitish
bloom; glaucous.

globosus, -a, -um (gloh-BOH-sus) Nearly spherical; round; globose.

glochid (gloh-kid) A barbed hair; a bristle.

glomeratus, -a, -um (gloh-mer-RAY-tus) In dense or compact clusters; glomerate.

glomerule (GLOM-e-rule) An inflorescence consisting of a cyme (a cluster of flowers

opening from the center outward) growing at the end of its own stalk.

gloriosus, -a, -um (glow-ri-OH-sus) Renowned, illustrious, very beautiful; superb,

glorious.

glumaceus, -a, -um (gloo-MAY-see-us) Chaffy in texture or resembling the awns of

wheat; having glumes; glumaceous.

glume (gloom) A small chaff-like bract; in particular, one of the two empty bracts at
the base of the grass spikelet.
glutinosus, -a, -um (gloo-tin-OH-sus) Covered with a sticky exudation; glutinous.

Gomesa (go-MEJ-ah) A genus of 12 epiphytic species from Brazil, allied to

Oncidium. It was established in 1815 by Robert Brown to commemorate Dr.
Bernardino Antonio Gomes, a Portuguese naval physician and botanist, author of a
book on the medicinal plants of Brazil.

Gongora (gon-GOR-ah) A genus of 25 species confined to the American

tropics, the flowers of which are extremely complicated; related to Stanhopea and
Coryanthes, it was described in 1794 by Ruiz and Pavon, and dedicated Don
Antonio Cabellero y Gongora, Bishop of Cordova, Spain.

Goodyera: Goodyera pubescens is an American jewel

orchid.
Goodyera (good-YER-ah) A genus of 25 terrestrial species distributed throughout the
world and noteworthy for the variegated leaves of many of its species. It was
described in 1813 by Robert Brown in dedication to John Goodyer (1592–1664),
early English botanist, who assisted Johnson in his edition of Gerard's Herbal.

Govenia (go-VEEN-ee-a) The genus contains around 25 terrestrial species ranging

from Mexico south to Bolivia. Loddiges described the genus in 1831, naming it in
honor of J.J. Goven, an English naturalist who collected plants in Assam.

gracilis, -e (GRAS-ill-is) Slender and graceful.

graminifolius, -a, -um (gram-i-ni-FOH-lee-us) Having grasslike leaves.

Grammangis (gram-MANG-giss) A genus of two species related to

Grammatophyllum and Cymbidium. Found in Madagascar and Java, it was
described by Reichenbach in 1860, the meaning of the name being obscure.

Grammatophyllum (gram-mat-oh-FILL-um) A genus of 12 species of epiphytic

orchids from Malaya, Indonesia or the Philippines. Related to Cymbidium and noted
for the large size of the plants, it was described in 1825 by Blume, the name possibly
referring to the markings on the flowers or the prominent parallel leaf-veins.

grandifolius, -a, -um (grand-i-FOH-lee-us) Having leaves larger than those of its
cogeners.

grandiflorus, -a, -um (grand-i-FLOOR-us) Having flowers large in comparison with

others of the genus.

grandis, -e (GRAND-is) Big, great, showy, imposing; grand.

granulosus, -a, -um (gran-yew-LOH-sus) Composed of or appearing as if covered by

minute grains; granulose.

Graphorkis (graf-ORE-kiss) Madagascar and the Mascarenes are the home of the
five epiphytic species in this genus. Aubert du Petit Thouars established the genus in
1809 and used the Greek words for "writing" and "orchid" to coin the name, but his
reasoning is unclear, as there are no markings on the flowers.

gratissimus, -a, -um (grat-ISS-i-mus) Very agreeable; pleasing.

graveolens: Bulbophyllum graveolens smells like rotten

meat.
graveolens (grav-ee-OH-lenz) Strong smelling; heavy-scented; rank.

green pod A horticultural expression for seed capsules that are harvested prior to
their dehiscence, allowing surface sterilization of the fruit and sowing of still
immature embryos.

gregarious (gri-gair-ee-uhs) Growing together in clusters or colonies; synchronous

flowering in orchids, such as some Dendrobium and Thrixspermum.

grex (greks) A flock or group, applied collectively to the offspring of a given cross.

Grisebach, August Heinrich Rudolf (1814–1879) Prominent German taxonomist who

worked on the plants of the West Indies.

Grobya (grow-BEE-a) There are three epiphytic species in this Brazilian

genus. Lindley described the genus in 1835, naming it in honor of Lord Grey of
Groby, England, a patron of horticulture and orchid grower.

grossus, -a, -um (GROH-sus) Very large.

Guarianthe: Guarianthe skinerii is the national flower

of Costa Rica.
Guarianthe (gwar-ee-AN-thee) A small genus of species from Central America and
northern South America formerly included in Cattleya.

guatemalensis, -e (gwat-i-ma-LEN-sis) A native of Guatemala.

Guillaumin, André (1885–1974) French botanist who wrote numerous orchid

publications and co-authored, with F. Gagnepain, the Orchidaceae for the Flore
Générale d'Indochine (1932–1934)

guttatus, -a, -um (gut-TAY-tus) Spotted; speckled with small dots; guttate.

Gymnadenia (jim-na-DEN-ee-ah) A small genus of tuberous terrestrials from Europe

and Temperate Asia, allied to Habenaria. It was erected by Robert Brown in 1813,
the name derived from the Greek for "naked" and "gland," referring to the sticky disc
of the pollinia, which are free on both sides of the rostellum.

gynoecium (jye-NEE-see-um) The female or pistil-bearing part of the flower. See

androecium.

gynandrous (jye-NAN-drus) With the stamens borne on the pistil and united in one
organ, as in the orchids.

gynostemium (jye-noh-STEM-ee-um) See column

Habenaria: Habenaria rhodocheila is from Southeast

Asia.
Habenaria (hab-ee-NARE-ee-a) There are more than 500 terrestrial species in this
very widespread genus ranging around the world in temperate and tropical grassland
regions. They are most numerous in tropical Africa, Asia and South America.
Wildenow established the genus in 1805 and coined the generic name from the
Greek word for "reins" to denote the straplike divisions of the sepals and petals.
HCC/AOS An American Orchid Society flower award denoting a Highly
Commendable Certificate, awarded to an orchid species or hybrid that scores
between 75 and 79 points out of a possible 100.

habit (hab-it) The characteristic form, aspect or mode of growth of a plant.

habitat (hab-ih-tat) The kind of locality in which a plant normally grows.

Haemaria (hee-MAY-ree-ah) A monotypic genus of highly variable terrestrial orchids

from tropical Asia. Noted for its attractive foliage as one of the "jewel orchids," it was
described by Lindley in 1826 but is now considered a synonym of the earlier genus
Ludisia.

Hagsatera (hag-sa-TER-a) Mexico is the home of the two species in this genus that
grow either epiphytically or lithophytically. Tamayo established the genus in 1974,
naming it in honor of Eric Hágsater, editor of Orquidea, a Mexican journal.

hairs (hairz) A general name (technically known as trichomes for many kinds of
small and slender outgrowths on the parts of plants; special kinds of hairiness are
designated as setose, villous, comose, pubescent, hirsute etc.

halophyte (HAL-uh-fayt) Plants growing in saline soil.

hamate (HAY-mayt) Hook-shaped; having a hooklike process.

haploid (HAP-loyd) An individual or cell with only a single set of chromosomes. (n)
The characteristic chromosome number of the gametes.

hapuu (hah-POO-oo) Hawaiian term for tree-fern fiber.

Haraella (ha-ra-EL-a) The two epiphytic species in this genus are native to Taiwan.
Kudo described the genus in 1930 and named it in honor of Yoshi Hara, who
discovered the material that became the type specimen.

harpophyllus, -a, -um (har-poh-FILL-us) Having sickle-shaped leaves.

Hartweg, Karl Theodore (1812—1871) A plant collector from Karlsruhe, Germany,

who explored Mexico and the Andes for the Horticultural Society of London. He was
commemorated by Lindley in the genus Hartwegia .

Hartwegia (hart-WEGG-ee-a) See Nageliella.

hastatus, -a, -um (has-TAY-tus) Like an arrowhead; spear-shaped; hastate.

hastilabius, -a, -um (has-ti-LAY-bee-us) With a spear-shaped lip.

Hawkes, A.D. (1927—1977) Prominent horticultural taxonomist whose work

culminated in the Encyclopaedia of Cultivated Orchids (1965)

head (hed) A short dense spike; capitulum.

Helcia: Helcia sanguinolenta is now in the genus

Trichopilia.

Helcia (HEL-see-a) Only one species is known in this genus native to

Colombia and Ecuador. Lindley established the genus in 1840, deriving the generic
name from the Greek word for "horse-collar or yoke," probably a reference to the hair
on the pit at the base of the lip. Now included in the genus Trichopilia.

helicoid (HEL-i-koyd) Twisted or coiled in snail-shell form.

heliotropism (hee-lee-o-TROPE-ism) The characteristic of turning toward the light.

hemi- In Greek compounds, signifying "half."

hemiepiphyte (hem-ee-EPP-i-fyte) A plant, such as Vanilla, whose life history

includes both terrestrial and epiphytic phases.
hepta- (HEHP-ta) In Greek compounds, signifying "seven."

herb (erb) A plant with no persistent woody stem above ground.

herbaceus, -a, -um (her-BAY-see-us) Herblike; not woody; green and succulent;
herbaceous.

herbarium (her-BAIR-ee-um) A collection of dried (or otherwise preserved) plant

specimens, annotated and identified, and systematically arranged.

herbarium specimen (her-BAIR-ee-um speh-SIH-men) A dried preserved plant

mounted on a sheet of paper, synonymous with a herbarium sheet, also applied to
associated research collections such as spirit-preserved flowers.

herbicide (her-bih-SIDE) The class of chemicals that is used to destroy plants.

Hermaphrodite: Catasetum pileatum flower that is a

hermaphrodite.
hermaphrodite (her-MAF-roh-dyte) A flower having the organs, characteristics or
attributes of both sexes, hence, perfect.

hermaphroditic (her-maf-roh-DIT-ik) Pertaining to hermaphrodite; with the stamens

and pistils in the same flower.

heterocarpus, -a, -um (het-er-o-KAR-pus) Having variable or various kinds of seed

pods.

heterogamous (het-er-OG-a-muss) With two or more kinds or forms of flowers.

heterozygous (het-er-oh-ZY-guss) Pertaining to an individual that has inherited
different alleles for a gene from each parent.

Hexadesmia (hex-a-DEZ-mee-a) There are about 15 epiphytic species in this genus

native to the tropical Americas. Brongniart founded the genus in 1842, deriving the
name from two Greek words meaning "six" and "chain or bond" to denote the six
pollinia in two groups.

hexaploid (HEKS-ah-ployd) Having six sets of chromosomes (6N).

Image captionHexisea: Formerly nown as Hexisea

bidentata, now in the genus Scaphyglottis.
Hexisea (hex-EE-zee-a)) A genus of two species of epiphytic orchids from Meso-
america and northern South America, related to Scaphyglottis, it was described in
1834 by Lindley, the name derived from the fact that the six segments of the flower's
perianth are about equal in size and shape.

Himantoglossum (hi-man-toe-GLOSS-um) There are four or five robust terrestrial

species in this genus native to northern Europe and the Middle East. The genus was
first described by W.D. Kock in 1837, who derived the name from two Greek words
meaning "strap" and "tongue" to denote the unusual lip.

hippacripiform (hip-ah-KRIP-ih-form) Shaped like a horseshoe.

 Hirsute: The hirsute cane of Sobralia fenzliana.
hirsute (HIR-soot) Covered with long, rather coarse or stiff hairs.

hirsutissimus, -a, -um (her-soo-TISS-eh-muss) Most hairy; very hairy.

Hispaniella (his-pan-EE-ell-a) This is a monotypic epiphytic genus from Hispaniola in

the West Indies. G. Bream, in 1980, removed this species from Oncidium and
established the new genus. He named it in honor of the island of Hispaniola.

hispidus, -a, -um (HISS-pid-us) Beset with rigid or bristly hairs or with bristles; hispid.

hispidulus, -a, -um (hiss-PID-yew-lus) Somewhat or minutely hispid; hispidulous.

hoary (HOHR-ee) Covered with a close white or whitish pubescence.

Hoehne, Frederico Carlos (1882–1959) Brazilian botanist who worked extensively on

orchids, author of the Orchidaceae for the Flora Brasilica (1940–1953)

Holcoglossum (hole-koe-GLOSS-um) There are perhaps eight species in this

epiphytic genus from Southeast Asia, ranging from Myanmar to Taiwan. Schlechter
first described the genus in 1919, using the two Greek words for "strap" and "tongue"
to denote the strap-shaped lip.

Holford, Lt. Col. Sir George L. (1860–1926) Son of Robert Holford, he inherited his
father's fine collection of orchids at Westonbirt, Gloucester, Tetsbury, England,
developing it into one of the world's greatest orchid collections; noted for its fine
hybrid cattleyas and cymbidiums, particularly the tetraploid Cymbidium Alexanderi
‘Westonbirt', FCC/AOS.
holophyletic (HOHL-oh-fy-let-ick) Cladistic term referring to a phylogenetic group
that is both monophyletic (from one ancestor) and includes all derivatives from that
one ancestor.

holotype (hole-oh-TYPE) The specimen that was used for the original genus
description.

Holttum, Richard Eric (1895–1990) Prominent English botanist, director of the

Singapore Botanic Garden, expert on orchids, gingers and ferns, author of many
orchid publications including the Orchidaceae for the Flora of Malaya.

Homalopetalum (ho-mal-oh-PET-al-um) A genus of four species of epiphytic orchids

from tropical America. Allied to Sophronitis, it was described by R.A. Rolfe in 1896,
the name referring to the uniformity of the petals and sepals.

homo- (ho-moh) In Greek compounds, signifying "alike" or "very similar."

homocarpous (ho-moh-KAR-pus) All the fruits, as of a flower head, alike.

homogamous (ho-MOG-ah-mus) Having flowers that do not differ sexually.

homologous (ho-MAHL-oh-gus) Corresponding in origin and in type of structure, but

not necessarily in function. (See analogous)

homomorphous (hoh-moh-MOR-fus) Uniform; all the given parts alike; possessing

perfect flowers of only one kind.

homonym (HOM-oh-nim) A scientific name that is has already been used by its
earlier application to a different entity of the same type and hence untenable under
the rules of taxonomic priority. For instance the use of Carria to describe a genus of
orchids since the name has previously been used to describe another genus in the
plant world.

homozygous (hoh-moh-ZYE-gus) An individual that possesses the same two alleles

for a particular gene.

Hooker, Joseph Dalton (1817–1911) Successor to his father as director of the Royal
Botanic Gardens, Kew. A worldwide botanical traveler with a keen interest in
biogeography, he authored many botanical works and floras, including orchids of
various regions; editor of Curtis' Botanical Magazine from 1865 to 1904, he was
elected president of the Royal Society in 1873.

Hooker, William Jackson (1785–1865) A professor of botany at the University of

Glasgow, he was in 1841 appointed first official director of the Royal Botanic
Gardens at Kew, where his herbarium, along with those of Linnaeus, George
Bentham and John Lindley, forms the basis of the Kew Herbarium.

hormone (HOR-mone) A chemical produced in one part of the body and transported
to another area of the body where it affects growth and development.

horny (hor-nee) Hard and dense in texture; corneous.

host (host) A plant from which a parasitic plant derives its nourishment; a tree upon
which an epiphyte grows.

Houlletia (hoo-LET-ee-ah) A tropical American genus of 10 species allied to

Stanhopea, it was described by Brongniart in 1841 and dedicated to Houllet (1811–
1890), a French horticulturist and assistant curator at the Jardin des Plantes, Paris,
who collected the type species in Brazil.

Howeara (how-AR-ah) A hybrid genus derived from Leochilus, Oncidium and

Rodriguezia created in 1976, named in honor of Stephen Howe, the hybridizer of the
first cross.Now called Leomesezia.

humidity (hue-mid-ih-tee) The condition of dampness; the percentage of water

vapor in the air out of the total amount capable of being contained at the same
temperature (specifically, relative humidity).

humifuse (hum-ih-fuse) Spreading over the ground. Procumbent.

humilis, -e (HEW-mil-is) Low-growing; more dwarf than most of its kind.

humus (hue-muss) Decomposing organic matter in the soil.

Huntleya (HUNT-lee-ah) A genus of 10 species of epiphytic orchids from

tropical America. Allied to Zygopetalum, it was described by Bateman in 1837, the
name complimenting the Rev. J.T. Huntley, an English orchid enthusiast.

Hurst, Charles Chamberlain (1870–1947) British geneticist who was one of the first
to apply scientific analysis to orchid breeding behavior, with particular attention to
albinism, and who, with Rolfe, prepared a major book on manmade orchid hybrids,
The Orchid Stud-Book (1909)

hyacinthinus, -a, -um (hye-a-sin-THYE-nus) Resembling a hyacinth.

hyaline (HYE-a-leen) Thin and translucent, rarely transparent.

hybrid (hye-brid) The offspring resulting from the union of a species or hybrid with
another species or hybrid.

hybridization (hye-brid-I-ZAY-shun) Causing the production of hybrids by crossing

different species, etc.

hydrophyte (hye-druh-fahyt) Said of plants growing near water.

hydroponics (hye-dro-PON-iks) A soilless method of growing orchids, using nutrient

solutions and an inorganic supporting medium.

hyemalis, -e (hye-em-AY-lis) Of winter; flowering in winter. (Also spelled hiemalis)

Hygrochilus (hye-grow-KYE-luhs) This monotypic genus comes from Southeast Asia,

ranging from India to southeast China. Pfitzer established the genus in 1897,
choosing two Greek words for "wet" and "lip" to denote the nectar-producing channel
on the lip.

hygroscopic (hye-groh-SKOP-ik) Capable of absorbing moisture from the

atmosphere.

hyperboreus, -a, -um (hye-per-BOR-ee-us) Far northern.

hyphae (HYE-fee) The cylindrical threadlike filaments that constitute the vegetative
body of a fungus.

hyphaematicus, -a, -um (hye-fee-MAT-i-kus) Blood red underneath.

hypochile (HYE-poh-kyle) The lower or basal part of the compound lip in some
orchids; also hypochilium.

hypogaeous (hye-puh-JEE-uhs) Growing underground.

hystrix (HISS-triks) Bristly; like a porcupine.

ignea: Masdevallia ignea has fiery red flowers.

igneus, -a, -um Fiery color, red; igneous.

illustris, -e (ill-LUS-tris) Brilliant; lustrous.

imbricatus, -a, -um (im-bree-KAY-tus) Overlapping, like shingles on a roof, either

vertically or spirally; imbricate.

immaculatus, -a, -um (im-mak-yew-LAY-tus) Spotless; immaculate.

immarginate (im-MAR-ji-nayt) Without a rim or edge; lacking a definite margin.

immersus, -a, -um (im-MER-sus) Entirely under water.

 imperfect: This female flower of Cycnoches cooperi is
imperfect because it has no pollen.
imperfect (im-per-fekt) Said of a flower that has either stamens or pistils but not
both.

implexus, -a, -um (im-PLEKS-us) Tangled; interlaced; implexuous.

impregnation (im-preg-NAY-shun) Fecundation or fertilization of the ovule by the

pollen; also the infiltration of substances.

impressus, -a, -um (im-PRESS-us) Deeply nerved; furrowed or grooved as if by

pressure.

inaequalis, -e (in-ee-KWAY-lis) Unequal; having unequal parts.

incanus, -a, -um (in-KAY-nus) Hoary; quite gray; incanescent; canescent.

incarnatus, -a, -um (in-kar-NAY-tus) Flesh-colored.

included (in-KLEW-ded) Not protruding from the surrounding segments.

incertus, -a, -um (in-SER-tus) Doubtful; uncertain.

incisus, -a, -um (in-SYE-sus) Deeply and irregularly cut; incised.

incorrect names (in-KOR-rekt nayms) Names that are not in conformity with all
requisite provisions of the International Codes of Nomenclature.

incomputus, -a, -um (in-KOMP-tus) Unadorned.

incrassate (in-KRASS-ayt) Thickened.

incrassatus, -a, -um (in-krass-AY-tus) Thickened; incrassate.

incumbent (in-KUHM-bent) Resting or leaning upon another organ.

incurvus, -a, -um (in-KER-vus) Crooked, bent; curved inward.

indefinite (in-def-ih-nit) Very numerous, as above 20; see "definite."

indehiscent (in-dee-HISS-ent) Not opening by valves, etc.; remaining persistently

closed.

indeterminate (in-dee-ter-min-it) Growing on from the apex, particularly of the main

axis.

indigen (IN-di-jen) A plant that is indigenous or native.

indigenous (in-DIJ-en-us) Native to a country or region, not introduced.

indivisus, -a, -um (in-div-EYE-sus) Undivided.

indument (in-DEW-ment) Any pubescent or hairy covering

induplicate (in-DEW-pli-kayt) With margins folded inward.

induratus, -a, -um (in-dew-RAY-tus) Hard, hardened.

inferior (in-feer-EE-or) Beneath, lower, below; as an inferior ovary, one that is below
the attachment of the petals and sepals.

inflatus, -a, -um (in-FLAY-tus) Blown up; bladdery; swollen; inflated.

inflexed (in-FLEXD) Bent or turned abruptly inwards or downwards.

inflorescence (in-floor-ESS-ents) The general arrangement and disposition of the

flowers on an axis; the mode of flowering; the flowering part of a plant.
infra- (IN-frah) In combinations, signifying "below."

infundibuliformis, -e (in-fund-dib-yew-li-FORM-is) Funnel-form, trumpet-shaped;

infundibuliform.

infundibulum (in-fun-DIB-yew-lum) A funnel.

innate (in-nayt) Borne at the apex of the supporting part.

inodorus, -a, -um (in-oh-DOOR-us) Scentless; without a scent.

inscriptus, -a, -um (in-SKRIP-tus) Marked, as if with letters; inscribed.

insecticide (in-sekt-ih-SIDE) The class of chemicals that is used to attack insects.

inserted (in-sir-ted) Attached; as a stamen growing on the corolla.

insignis: Dendrobium insigne is distinguished.

insignis, -e (in-SIG-nis) Noble, admirable, distinguished.

inter- (in-ter) Prefix meaning between.

interfoliaceous (in-ter-foll-EE-AY-shuss) Between the leaves of a pair.

intergeneric (in-ter-jen-NAIR-ik) Between or among two or more genera.

integer, -gra, -grum (IN-tej-er) Entire.

intermedius, -a, -um (in-ter-MEE-dee-us) Halfway between two other things;
intermediate in color, form or habit.

internode (IN-ter-nohd) That portion of a stem between two nodes or joints.

interruptus, -a, -um (in-ter-RUPP-tus) Not continuous, as with scattered leaves or

flowers; interrupted.

interspecific (in-ter-speh-SIFF-ik) Between or among two or more species.

intortus, -a, -um (in-TORT-us) Twisted upon or around itself.

intra- (in-tra) A prefix meaning within.

intramarginal (in-tra-mar-GIN-ahl) Just within the margin or edge; between the

margins.

introduced (in-truh-doosd)) Brought from another region, either intentionally or

otherwise; in horticulture, used to designate the intentional bringing of plants into
cultivation either from another country or from the wild.

introduction (in-tro-DUK-shun) An exotic plant introduced by man or other agency

from its native region to another area.

introrsus, -a, -um (in-TROR-sus) Turned or faced inward or toward the axis; introrse.

inverted (in-vuhr-ted) Turned over; end-for-end; topside down.

in vitro (in-VEE-tro) Biological processes and reactions under artificially controlled

conditions outside of the organism.

in vivo (in-VEE-vo) Biological processes and reactions within a living organism.

involute (IN-vo-loot) Rolled inward or toward the upper side; said of a flat body (as a
leaf) See "revolutus."

Ionopsis (eye-oh-NOP-siss) A genus of two tropical and subtropical American

orchids, usually epiphytic, described in 1815 by Humboldt, Bonpland and Kunth, the
name referring to the violet-like appearance of the flowers.

Ipsea (IP-see-ah) A monotypic genus from Ceylon and southern India, related to
Phaius. It was described by Lindley in 1831, the origin of the name obscure but
probably meaning "by itself," that is, without close relatives; the sole species, the
yellow-flowered Ipsea speciosa, is called the "daffodil orchid."

iridifolius, -a, -um (eye-rid-i-FOH-lee-us) Iris-leaved.

irregular (ih-REG-yuh-lar) Showing inequality in the size, form or union of its similar
parts.

irroratus, -a, -um (ir-ror-AY-tus) Dewy; moistened, sprinkled with dew; irrorate.

Isabelia (iz-a-BELL-ee-ah) A monotypic genus of dwarf-growing creeping

epiphytic orchids from Brazil, now referred to as Neolauchea. Related to Sophronitis,
it was founded by Barbosa-Rodrigues in 1877, the name honoring Isabel, Countess
d'Eu, partroness of science and floriculture in Brazil under the reign of Pedro II.

Isochilus (eye-soh-KYE-lus) A genus of 10 species of tropical American

epiphytes allied to Ponera, described by Robert Brown in 1813, the name alluding to
the fact that the lip is usually equal to the sepals in size.

Isotria (eye-SOH-tree-ah) A genus described by Rafinesque in 1808 consisting of

two species of terrestrial orchids confined to the United States, the name referring to
the symmetrical arrangement of the three sepals that are similar in size and shape.

isozyme (eye-so-zyme) Different forms of the same enzyme that have slightly
different activities; used in chemotaxonomy.
 isthmus: Rlc. Malvarosa Jade has an isthmus lip.
isthmus (IS-muhs) A narrowed portion of a part or segment of a flower.

ixioides (iks-ee-OY-deez) Resembling plants of the African genus Ixia in the

Iridaceae.

J
JC/AOS An American Orchid Society award denoting a Judges Commendation,
awarded to flowers or plants, individually or in groups, for a distinctive characteristic
or aspect of historical or other importance that, in the opinion of the judges, is worthy
of recognition.

Jacquiniella (jack-in-ee-ELL-ah) A small genus of tropical American epiphytic

orchids related to Ponera and Isochilus. It was established in 1920 by Schlechter,
the name commemorating the Austrian botanist, Nikolaus Joseph von Jacquin
(1727—1817), who collected and described many American plants.
 japonica: Sedirea japonica is found in Japan.
japonicus, -a, -um (ja-PON-ik-us) Native of Japan; Japanese.

javanicus, -a, -um (ja-VAN-ik-us) Native of Java; Javanese.

jointed (JOYN-ted) With nodes, or points of real or apparent articulation.

jugosus, -a, -um (joo-GOH-sus) Furrowed, lipped; mountainous; connected or yoked.

Jumellea (joo-MELL-ah) A sizable genus of epiphytic orchids from

Madagascar and tropical Africa, closely related to Angraecum, it was described by
Schlechter in 1914 and dedicated to Professor Henry Jumelle, a French botanist
from Marseilles who investigated the flora of Madagascar in the late nineteenth
century.

juncifolia: Octomeria juncifolia has rush-like foliage.

juncifolius, -a, -um (jun-ki-FOH-lee-us) Rush-leaved.
K
karyology (cair-ee-OLL-oh-gee) The science of studying chromosome morphology.

karyotype (CAIR-ee-oh-type) The morphologic type or characterization of the

chromosome complement.

keel: Keels on the midlobe of the lip identify C.

harrisoniana.
keel (keel) A central dorsal ridge, like the keel of a boat.

keeled (keel-d) Provided with a keel.

Kefersteinia (kef-er-STINE-ee-a) There are around 20 epiphytic species in this

genus ranging from Costa Rica south to Bolivia. H.G. Reichenbach created the
genus in 1852, naming it in honor of Herr Keferstein of Krollwitz, an avid orchid
grower and friend of Reichenbach.

Kegeliella (keg-el-ee-EL-a) The two species in this genus are found in Central
America, West Indies and Surinam. H.G. Reichenbach established the genus in
1852, naming it Kegelia, in honor of Herr Kegel, the gardener at Halle University in
Germany, but Mansfield, in 1934, discovered that the name had been used
previously for another genus and changed it to Kegeliella.

Kingella (king-EL-a) See Kingidium.

 keiki, video

keiki (KAY-kee) Hawaiian term used by orchidists to signify an adventitious offshoot

or offset from an orchid's cane or inflorescence.

key (KEE) A series of paired, contrasting statements used to facilitate identification.

King, George (1840—1909) British botanist, co-author with Robert Pantling of the
monumental The Orchids of the Sikkim-Himalaya.

Kingdon-Ward, F. (1885—1958) Indefatigable British plant collector, responsible for

numerous horticultural introductions from Asia including the eponymous
Paphiopedilum wardii.

Kingidium: Kingidium mimus was recently transferred

into Phalaenopsis.

Kingidium (king-ID-ee-um) There are approximately five epiphytic species in

this genus ranging from India east to the Philippines. P.F. Hunt established the
genus in 1970, naming it in honor of Sir George King, the coauthor of Orchids of
Sikkim-Himalaya. Recent studies by Christenson transfer this genus to
Phalaenopsis.

Klaboch, Franz (?-1879) A nephew of Benedict Roezl, he collected orchids for a few
years for the firm of Sander, chiefly in Colombia, and with his brother is
commemorated in the species Pescatorea klabochorum.

Knudson, Lewis (1884—1958) An American plant physiologist, long associated with

Cornell University, noted for his work in the development of the asymbiotic method of
germinating orchid seed; in 1949, he was awarded the American Orchid Society's
Gold Medal of Achievement for his contributions to orchidology.

Kollenstenia: Kollenstenia kellnereana growing as a

terrestrial in Venezuela.

Koellensteinia (kehl-en-STINE-ee-a) The 10 species in this genus, widespread

in South America, grow either terrestrially or epiphytically. Schlechter established the
genus in 1918, naming it in honor of Captain Kellner von Koelenstein, an Austrian.

Kraenzlin, Fritz (1847—1934) A German orchidologist whose work embraced

miscellaneous new orchid species from Tibet, China, the Pacific Islands, Africa and
the Americas. He is noted chiefly for his substandard monographic treatment of large
and difficult groups of orchids, such as the Coelogyninae, the Dendrobiinae, the
Oncidiinae, Masdevallia and Polystachya.

L
 labellum: The labellum of Cattleya dowiana is very
showy.
labellum (lah-BEL-lum) The lip or modified petal of an orchid flower.

labiatus, -a, -um (lah-bee-AY-tus) Large-lipped; having a lip; labiate.

labyrinthiformis, -e (lab-i-rin-thee-FORM-iss) With intricate winding lines or

passages; labyrinthine.

Lacaena (la-SEE-na) The two epiphytic species in this genus are native to Central
America. Lindley established the genus in 1843, deriving the generic name from the
Greek word Lakaina. The reasoning is not clear, although this is an alternative name
for Helen of Troy.

laceratus, -a, -um (la-ser-RAY-tus) Torn; irregularly cleft or cut; lacerate.

laciniatus, -a, -um (la-sin-ee-AY-tus) Slashed; cut into narrow pointed segments;
laciniate.

lactescens (lak-TESS-senz) Containing milk or a milklike substance; lactescent.

lacunosus, -a, -um (lak-yew-NO-sus) Having holes or empty places; deeply pitted;
lacunose.

Laelia (LAY-lee-a) A genus of showy epiphytic orchids from tropical America.

Related to Cattleya and Epidendrum, it was described by Lindley in 1831, the name
obscure but possibly dedicated to Laelia, one of the Vestal Virgins.

Laeliocattleya (lay-lee-oh-KAT-lee-a) A hybrid genus between Laelia and Cattleya

created in 1863.

Laeliopsis (lay-lee-OP-siss) A monotypic epiphytic genus from the West

Indies. It was established in 1853 by Lindley, the name alluding to the similarity of
the species to the members of the genus Laelia. The species are now included in the
genus Broughtonia.

laevigatus, -a, -um (lay-vig-AY-tus) Having a smooth, polished surface.

lamella (la-MEL-la) A thin flat plate or laterally flattened ridge; (pl. lamellae)

lamellate (LAM-el-layt) Provided with lamellae.

lamina (LAM-in-ah) The expanded portion of a leaf or floral segment. (See blade)

laminatus, -a, -um (lam-i-NAY-tus) Covered with plates or scales; laminated.

lanceolata: Sacoila lanceolata has a spear-shaped lip.

lanceolatus, -a, -um (lan-see-oh-LAY-tus) Shaped like the head of a lance; spear-
shaped; narrow and tapering toward the apex or toward each end; lanceolate.

Lanium (lan-EE-um) A small epiphytic genus of two or more species native to

northern South America. Lindley described the genus in 1841, coining the generic
name from the Greek word for "wool" to denote the pubescens on the inflorescences
and flowers.

Lankesterella (lank-es-ter-ELL-ah) A genus of 20 species of tropical American

(chiefly Brazil) miniature epiphytic orchids. Related to Spiranthes, it was described
by Oakes Ames in 1923 and dedicated to Charles H. Lankester, an ardent English
amateur plantsman domiciled in Costa Rica.

lanuginosus, -a, -um (lan-oo-jin-OH-sus) Woolly or cottony; covered with soft, downy
hairs; lanuginose.

lasioglossus, -a, -um (lay-zee-oh-GLOSS-us) Woolly tongued; having a rough or

hairy lip.

laterialis, -e (la-ter-AY-lis) On or at the side of; lateral.

lath house (lath hous) A lattice-work structure that provides broken shade for
orchids grown outdoors in warm or frost-free climates or seasons.

latex (LAY-teks) The milky sap found in some plants.

latifolius, -a, -um (lat-i-FOH-lee-us) Broad-leaved.

latilabrus, -a, -um (lat-i-LAY-brus) Broad-lipped.

lax (laks) Open or loose, not dense.

laxus, -a, -um (LAKS-us) Loose or open; lax.

Image captionlead: A new lead on a Cymbidium hybrid.

lead (leed) A young, new vegetative growth.

leaflet (LEEF-let) One part of a compound leaf; secondary leaf.

leaf-stalk (LEEF-stawk) The stem of a leaf; petiole.

lectotype (lek-TOE-type) A specimen chosen by subsequent workers in taxonomy

when no holotype was designated or when the original holotype was lost or
destroyed.

legitimate name (LEK-toe-type) A name that is in accordance with the articles of the
International Codes of Nomenclature.

Lehmann, F.C. (1850—1903) Renowned Neotropical plant collector in Colombia,

Ecuador and Central America with a special interest in orchids, commemorated in
numerous orchids including Pescatorea lehmannii.

Lemboglossum (lem-boh-GLOSS-um) A primarily Mexican genus of 14 species of

showy epiphytes formerly included in Odontoglossum. Halbinger established the
genus in 1985, deriving the name from two Greek words meaning "boat" and
"tongue," possibly to describe the callus tissue on the lip. Now synonymous with
Rhynchostele.

lenticularis, -e (len-tik-yew-LAY-ris) Lentil-shaped; lens-shaped; lenticular.

lentiginosus, -a, -um (len-tij-in-OH-sus) Freckled; lentiginose.

Leochilus (lee-oh-KYE-luss) A genus of 10 species of dwarf epiphytic orchids from

the American tropics allied to Oncidium. It was described by Knowles and Westcott
in 1838, the name derived from the Greek meaning ecallose lip, in reference to the
smooth lip of the flower.

leonis (lee-OH-niss) Of a lion, in the sense of strong, stout, leonine.

leopardinus, -a, -um (lee-oh-par-DYE-nus) Tawny, or conspicuously spotted like a

leopard.

Lepanthes (leh-PAN-theez) A genus of 100 or more species of small-flowered

dwarf epiphytic orchids of tropical America. Related to Pleurothallis and Masdevallia,
it was founded by Swartz in 1799, the name referring to the tiny scalelike flowers.
Lepanthopsis (leh-pan-THOP-siss) A genus of 40 species of dwarf epiphytic
orchids from tropical America, related to and resembling Lepanthes as its name
implies. It was described by Oakes Ames in 1933.

lepidotus, -a, -um (le-pi-DOH-tus) Covered with small scurfy scales; lepidote.

lepidus, -a, -um (LEP-id-us) Neat, pretty, pleasing; graceful; elegant.

leptosepalus, -a, -um (lep-toh-SEP-al-us) Having slender sepals.

Leptotes (lep-TOH-teez) A genus of three species of epiphytic orchids from

Brazil and Paraguay. Related to Laelia, it was described by Lindley in 1833, the
name referring to the slender leaves.

leucochilum: Paphiopedilum leucochilum has a white

lip.
leucochilus, -a,-um (lew-ko-KYE-liss) White-lipped.

Leucohyle (lew-ko-HYE-lee) The four epiphytic species in this genus range from
Panama south to Brazil. Klotzsch described the genus in 1834, deriving the generic
name from two Greek words meaning "white" and "wool," in reference to the white
hairs on the inflorescence.

leucorrhodus, -a, -um (lew-ko-ROH-dus) Rosy-white.

ligneous (LIG-nee-us) Woody.

ligulatus, -a, -um (lig-yew-LAY-tus) Strap-shaped; ligulate.

liguliform (lig-yu-LIH-form) Strap-shaped

limb (lim) The expanded portion of any petal, lip or leaf.

lilacina: Masdevallia lilacina has lilac-colored flowers

lilacinus, -a, -um (lye-la-SYE-nus) Like lilac in color or form.

limbatus, -a, -um (lim-BAY-tus) Having a distinct border of some other color; limbate.

Linden, Jean Jules (1817—1898) Famous explorer and Belgian horticulturist

responsible for the introduction and popularization of numerous orchids, producer of
the monumental illustrated works Pescatorea (1854—1860) and Lindenia (1885—
1906).

Lindley, John (1799—1865) An eminent English botanist and orchidologist whose

great contributions did so much to establish the basic knowledge of the orchid family;
among his many works are Orchidearium Sceletos (1826), Genera and Species of
Orchidaceous Plants (1830—1840), Sertum Orchidaceum (1837—1842), and Folia
Orchidacea (1852—1859).

linearis, -e (lin-e-AY-ris) Long and narrow, with sides nearly parallel, like a blade of
grass; linear.

lineatus, -a, -um (lin-ee-AY-tus) Lined; bearing thin parallel stripes; lineate.

linguiformis, -e (ling-gwee-FOR-miss) Tongue-shaped; linguiform.

lingulatus, -a, -um (ling-u-LAY-tus) Tongue-shaped; lingulate; ligulate.

linkage map (LINK-ij map) Delineation of the relative position of the genes on the
chromosome.

lip (lip) See labellum

Listera (LISS-ter-a) A genus of 20 species of mostly dwarf terrestrial orchids found

throughout the Northern Hemisphere, commonly called "twayblades." It was founded
in 1813 by Robert Brown, the name commemorating Dr. Martin Lister (1638—1711),
an English physician and naturalist.

lithophyte (LITH-oh-fyte) A plant that grows on rocks.

lithophytic (lith-oh-FIT-ik) Pertaining to a lithophyte; growing on rocks.

lividus, -a, -um (LIV-id-us) Lead-colored; bluish-gray; livid.

lobatus -a, -um (lo-BAY-tus) Furnished with lobes; lobed; lobate.

Lobb, Thomas (1811—1894) The younger of two brothers who collected plants for
James Veitch & Sons, he traveled widely in India, Burma, Java, Malaya, Borneo, and
the Philippines, discovering many new and valuable orchid species; he is
commemorated in Bulbophyllum lobbii.

Lobb, William (1809—1863) The older of two brothers who collected plants for
James Veitch & Sons from 1840 to 1857, he journeyed chiefly in South America, but
later went to California, where he remained until his death.

lobe (lohb) Any division or segment of an organ such as a leaf, petal, etc.

lobed (lohb d) Furnished with a lobe or lobes.

lobulate (LOB-yew-layt) Furnished with lobules; having small lobes.

lobule (LOB-yewl) A small lobe.

Lockhart, David (?—1846) The first superintendent of the Botanical Gardens in

Trinidad from 1818 to 1846, and a plant collector in Africa and Trinidad, his name is
commemorated in the genus Lockhartia.

Lockhartia (lok-HART-ee-ah) A genus of 25 species of epiphytic orchids from the

American tropics, related to Oncidium and commonly called the "braided orchid"
because of the the arrangement of the leaves. It was described in 1827 by Hooker in
compliment to David Lockhart.

locule (LOK-yewl) Compartment or cell of a pistil or anther.

locus, -i (LOH-kus) The position of a gene on the chromosome.

longicollis, -e (lon-jee-KOL-liss) Having a long neck.

longicornu (lon-jee-KOR-noo) Having a long horn.

longifolius, -a,-um (lon-jee-FOH-lee-us) Long-leaved.

longiscapus, -a, -um (lon-jee-SKAY-pus) Having a long scape or flower stalk.

loratus, -a, -um (lor-AY-tus) Strap-shaped; lorate.

Low, Hugh (1824—1904) Founder of the firm of Hugh Low & Co. of Clapton, London,
and father of Rajah Sir Hugh Low of Sarawak, he collected orchids in Borneo, Burma
and other countries of Asia.

lucid (LEW-sid) Shining, referring to the surface of an organ.

Luisia (loo-EEZ-ee-ah) A genus of 40 species of Asian epiphytic orchids with terete

leaves and congested inflorescences. Closely related to Vanda, it was founded by
Gaudichaud in 1826 and dedicated to Don Luis de Torres, a Spanish botanist of the
nineteeth century.

lunatus, -a, -um (loo-NAY-tus) Crescent-shaped; lunate.

luridus, -a, -um (LOO-rid-us) Dismal-colored; yellowish brown; lurid.

luteolus, -a, -um (loo-tee-OH-lus) Pale yellow; yellowish.

luteo-purpureus, -a, -um (LOO-tee-oh-pur-PUR-ee-us) Yellowish purple or yellow
and purple.

luteus, -a, -um (LOO-tee-us) Golden-yellow; luteous.

lutescens (loo-TESS-sens) Yellowish; becoming yellow; lutescent.

Lycaste (lye-KASS-tee) A genus of 25 species of epiphytic, or semiterrestrial,

orchids of tropical America, described by Lindley in 1843 and dedicated the beautiful
daughter of Priam, last king of Troy.

lyrate (LYE-rayt) Divided transversely into several lobes, the smallest at the base
becoming gradually larger toward the end of the leaf

M
Maclellanara (mac-LELL-an-AR-ah) A hybrid genus derived from Brassia,
Odontoglossum and Oncidium, created in 1978 and named for the firm Rod
McLellan Co., which created the genus. Now these hybrids are correctly, Brassidium.

Macodes (ma-KOH-deez) A genus of 14 species of terrestrial orchids from

Java and Borneo, considered one of the "jewel orchids" because of the beautiful
variegated foliage. It was described in 1840 by Lindley, the name alluding to the
elongated midlobe of the lip.

Macradenia (mak-ra-DEN-ee-ah) A genus of 12 species of inconspicuous

epiphytic orchids from tropical America, somewhat similar to Notylia. It was
described by Robert Brown in 1822, the name derived from the Greek in reference to
the long stipe connecting the pollinia to the viscid disk.
 macranthum: Cyrtochilum macranthum has large
flowers.
macranthus, -a, -um (ma-KRAN-thus) Large-flowered.

macroceras (mak-ro-SER-as) Large-horned.

macrochilus, -a, -um (mak-ro-KYE-lus) Large-lipped.

Macroclinium (mak-roh-KLY-nee-um) A Neotropical genus of 29 species of

diminutive fan-shaped twig epiphytes formerly included in a broadly defined Notylia.
Barbosa-Rodrigues described the genus in 1889, coining the generic name from two
Greek words for "large" and "klinandrum," a reference to the area where the pollinia
are attached.

macrophyllus, -a, -um (mak-ro-FILL-us) Large-leaved.

macrostachyus, -a, -um (mak-ro-STAY-kee-us) Having long tails like an ear of corn.

maculata: Brassia maculata has spotted flowers.

maculatus, -a, -um (mak-yew-LAY-tus) Spotted; maculate.

macule (MAK-yewl) A spot of pigment; the colored spot or mask on the base of the
lip in miltonias.

maculosus, -a, -um (mak-yew-LOH-sus) Spotted; maculate.

magnificus, -a, -um (mag-NIF-i-kus) Showy; magnificent.

magnus, -a, -um (MAG-nus) Great; large; big.

majalis, -e (ma-JAY-lis) Flowering in May.

major (MAY-jor) Larger than its cogeners.

majus, -a, -um (MAY-jus) Large compared with others of the same genus.

Makino, Tomitaro (1862—1957) Prominent Japanese botanist and botanical artist

who illustrated orchids of Eastern Asia.

malathion (mal-ah-THYE-on) The common name for a chemical pesticide consisting

of S-(dicarbethoxyethyl) O, (O-dimethy dithiophosphate); used for the control of soft
scales, spider mites, aphids and other orchid pests.

Malaxis (mal-AKS-iss) A genus 300 species of mostly terrestrial orchids found

throughout the world but most abundant in tropical mountains. Related to Liparis, it
was described by Swartz in 1788, the name alluding to the soft texture of the leaves.

malquique (mal-KEE-ke) Mexican term for tree fern, and also for tree-fern fiber.

mammiform (MAM-mih-form) Conical with a rounded top; breast-shaped

mammillatus, -a,-um (mam-mil-LAY-tus) Having nipple-shaped structures;

mammillate.

manicatus, -a, -um (man-i-KAY-tus) With long sleeves or sheaths.

marbled (mahr-buhld) Having irregular splashes or streaks of color.

marcescent (mar-SESS-ent) Withering, but not falling off.

marginalis, -e (mar-jin-AY-lis) Placed upon or attached to the edge.

marginatus, -a, -um (mar-jin-AY-tus) Furnished with a margin or border of distinct

character; marginate.

marmoratus, -a, -um (mar-mor-AY-tus) Marbled; mottled; marmorate.

Masdevallia (mas-de-VAHL-lee-ah) A genus of 380 species of epiphytic

orchids from tropical America. Related to Pleurothallis, it was established in 1794 by
Ruiz and Pavon, the name complimenting Dr. Jose Masdevall, a Spanish physician
and botanist of the 18th century.

matutinus, -a, -um (ma-too-TYE-nus) Pertaining to or occurring in the morning;

matutinal.

Maxillaria: Maxillaria tenuifolia is a popular species in

the genus.

Maxillaria (mak-sil-AIR-ee-ah) A genus of 420 species of chiefly epiphytic

orchids from the American tropics related to Scuticaria and Trigonidium. It was
described by Ruiz and Pavon in 1794, the name alluding to the fancied resemblance
of the flowers to the jaws of an insect.

maxillaris, -e (mak-sil-AIR-iss) Resembling jaws.

maximus, -a, -um (MAK-sim-us) The largest of its kind; maximal.

mealybug: Mealybugs are not cute furry

pets.
mealybug (MEE-lee-bug) A group of sucking insects commonly found in the leaf
axils and along the inflorescences of orchids, characterized by white elliptic bodies.

Mediocalcar: Mediocalcar decorata is a

miniature orchid.

Mediocalcar (mee-dee-oh-CAL-car) A genus of 20 species of New Guinea

epiphytes known for their long-lasting, brilliantly colored sepaline tubes. J.J. Smith
established the genus in 1914, deriving the generic name from two Greek words
meaning "middle" and "spur" to denote the saccate middle portion of the lip.

medium, media (MEE-dee-um, MEE-dee-a) (1) A nutrient substance, either liquid or

jelly-like, upon which orchid seeds are germinated under aseptic or sterile conditions.
(2) The substance or substratum in which an orchid plant is grown under cultivation,
either organic, such as osmunda, tree fern, bark, etc., or inorganic, such as gravel,
cinders, pumice, etc.
medius, -a, -um (MEE-dee-us) Intermediate; middle.

medusae (me-DEW-see) Referring to Medusa, one of the Gorgons whose locks

Minerva changed into serpents.

Megaclinium (meg-ah-KLYN-ee-um) An African genus of 40 epiphytic species now

included as a section of Bulbophyllum, usually characterized by broadly flattened
inflorescences resembling tongue depressors.

meiosis (my-OH-sis) The reduction division that halves the number of

chromosomes.

Meiracyllium (mye-rah-SILL-ee-um) A genus of two species of epiphytic or lithophytic

orchids from Mexico and Guatemala allied to Laelia. Founded by Reichenbach in
1864, the name refers to the dwarf creeping habit of the plants.

meleagris, -re (mel-ee-AY-gris) Resembling or spotted like a Guinea hen.

membranaceus, -a, -um (mem-bran-AY-shus) Thin and semitransparent; skinlike;

membranaceous.

Mendoncella (men-don-SELL-a) There are 11 epiphytic species in this genus

ranging from Mexico south to Brazil and Peru. Hawkes identified the genus in 1963,
naming it in honor of Dr. Luys de Mendon—a, editor of a Brazilian orchid journal.

meniscoidal (men-iss-KOY-dal) Like a meniscus or disk; with the form of a watch-

crystal.
 mentum: Dendrobium secundum showing the mentum.
mentum (MEN-tum) A chinlike projection formed by the sepals and extended foot of
the column.

mericlone (MAIR-i-klohn) A clonal orchid plantlet produced through the technique of

meristem propagation.

meristem (MAIR-i-stem) The growing tissue made up of actively dividing cells,

particularly at the tips of roots and at the apex of the vegetative or floral shoot.

-merous (mer-uhs) A suffix meaning having parts, as three-merous; having three

parts of each kind.

mesocarp (MES-oh-karp) Middle layer or part of a pericarp; the part between the
endocarp and exocarp.

mesochile (MES-oh-kyle) The intermediate or middle part of the lip of orchids whose
lip is separated into three parts.

Mesoglossum (mee-so-GLOSS-um) A monotypic lithophytic or terrestrial genus

native to Mexico. A member of the Odontoglossum Alliance, species in this genus
have lips held at an intermediate angle to the column. Halbinger established the
genus in 1984, deriving the generic name from two Greek words meaning "middle"
and "tongue," a reference to the intermediate position of the lip.

mesophyte (MES-oh-fyte) A plant that only requires an average amount of water.

meter (MEE-ter) A measure of length equal to 39.37 inches or 10

decimeters; abbreviated m.
Mexicoa (meks-ih-KO-a) A monotypic epiphytic genus native to Mexico. Garay
identified the genus in 1974, naming it after Mexico. Considered by many
taxonomists to belong to Oncidium.

Micholitz: Phalaenopsis micholitzii was named after

Wilhelm Micholitz.
Micholitz, Wilhelm (1854—1932) A plant collector for the firm of Sanders, who
collected in the Philippines, New Guinea and elsewhere. He introduced many fine
orchids, including Coelogyne micholitzii from Vietnam.

microchilus, -a, -um (mye-kroh-KYE-lus) Small-lipped.

Microcoelia (mye-crow-SEE-lee-a) There are around 27 leafless epiphytic

species in this genus ranging from tropical Africa to Madagascar. Lindley described
the genus in 1830, coining the name from two Greek words meaning "small" and
"abdomen" to denote the unique spur on these flowers.

micropropagation (mye-crow-prop-a-GAY-shun) The horticultural propagation of

plants by in vitro multiplication by tissue culture (meristemming) and sterile seed
culture.

micropyle (MYE-kroh-pyle) The opening of the ovule through which impregnation

takes place; the point on the seed marking the orifice of the ovule.

midrib (mihd-rihb) The main vein of a leaf or leaflike part.militaris, -e (mil-i-TAY-ris)

Pertaining to soldiers; like a soldier. In plants often in reference to flowers carried
stiffly erect like soldiers.
Miltonia (mil-TOH-nee-ah) A genus of nine species of epiphytic orchids from
South America related to Brassia, it was described in 1837 by Lindley, who
dedicated it to the Earl Fitzwilliam, Viscount Milton (1748—1833) a patron of
horticulture. Many plants known in horticulture as Miltonia have been reclassified as
Miltoniopsis.

Miltonioides (mil-TOH-nee-OY-deez) Around five or six epiphytic species are found

in this tropical Central- and South American genus. Brieger and Lueckel described
the genus in 1883, selecting a name that indicated these species were similar to
Miltonia.

Miltoniopsis (mill-toh-nee-OP-sis) A showy Neotropical genus of six species

formerly known as the cool-growing miltonias, commonly known as pansy orchids.
This epiphytic genus was described by Godefroy-Lebeuf in 1889, selecting a name
to indicate that the flowers resembled those of Miltonia.

minax (MYE-naks) Threatening; forbidding.

miniatum: Ascocentrum miniatum has vermillion

flowers.
miniatus, -a, -um (min-ee-AY-tus) Vermilion-colored; cinnabar-red; miniaceous.

minimus, -a, -um (MIN-i-mus) Smallest; minimum.

minus, -a, -um (MYE-nus) Smaller.

minutus, -a, -um (mye-NEW-tus) Very small; minute.

minutissimus, -a, -um (mye-new-TISS-i-mus) The smallest; most minute.

mirabilis, -e (mye-RAB-il-is) Wonderful; remarkable; marvelous.

Mischobulbon (mih-shoh-BUHL-on) The six terrestrial species in this genus are

native to Southeast Asia south to New Guinea. Schlechter described the genus in
1911, coining the name from two Greek words for "stalk" and "bulb" to describe the
small pseudobulbs found in this genus.

miticide (mye-TIH-side) A pesticide used to kill mites.

mitosis (my-TOH-sis) The process of nuclear division producing daughter nuclei

with the same number of chromosomes, followed by cell division; see meiosis.

mitratus, -a, -um (mye-TRAY-tus) Wearing a miter, alluding to the shape of the
flower.

mitriformis, -e (mye-tri-FOR-miss) Miter-shaped, or like a cap.

millimeter (mill-ih-MEE-ter) A measure of length equal to .03937 of an inch (1/25 of

an inch); abbreviated mm.

modesta: The flowers of Aerangis modesta are not very

showy.
modestus, -a, -um (moh-DESS-tus) Modest; not showy or flamboyant.

Mokara (moh-KAR-ah) A hybrid genus derived from Arachnis, Ascocentrum and

Vanda in 1969, and named in honor of the hybridizer C.Y. Mok.
monandrous (moh-NAN-drus) With one stamen.

moniliformis, -e (mo-nil-i-FOR-miss) Necklace-like; having alternate swellings and

constrictions.

mono- (mon-oh) A prefix meaning one

monodelphous (mon-oh-DEL-fus) When stamen filaments are fused into a column

or tube.

monoclinous (mon-oh-KLYE-nus) Hermaphroditic; perfect; the two sexes in the

same flower. (See diclinous)

Monocotyledoneae (mon-oh-kot-ill-ee-DOHN-ee-ee) One of two subclasses of the

angiospermous (seeds in a closed ovary) plants having but one cotyledon (seed-
leaf), a stem that rarely exhibits secondary growth in thickness and is without annual
rings, leaves generally parallel-veined, and the flowers trimerous (having parts in
threes); comprising such families as the orchids, lilies, irises, palms, sedges and
grasses.

monoecious (mon-EE-shus) With functional stamens and pistils in separate flowers

on the same plant.

monogynous (mon-NOJ-i-nus) With only one style.

monopetalous (mon-oh-PET-a-lus) One-petaled; all the petals united to form one

body or organ, as a gamopetalous corolla.

monophyletic (mon-oh-fye-LET-ick) A taxonomic and cladistic term referring to a

group having a common ancestor.

monophyllous (mon-oh-FIL-us) Having a single leaf.

 monopodial: Drawing showing monopodial growth.
monopodial (mon-oh-POH-dee-al) A form of growth in which there is a single
vegetative shoot that continues in growth from its terminal bud from season to
season, such as in the genus Vanda.

monostichous (moh-NOSS-ti-kus) In one row. (See distichous)

monstrosity (mon-STROSS-i-tee) Deformity; any unusual or atypical kind of

development; a teratology.

monotypic (mon-oh-TIP-ik) Having only one type, as a genus with but one species.

montanus, -a, -um (mon-TAY-nus) Pertaining to or living in mountains; montane.

Moon, Henry George (1857—1905) Noted English botanical artist who painted most
of the plates for the great orchid folios Reichenbachia (1888—1894). Commissioned
by Frederick Sander, whose daughter he later married.

Mormodes (mor-MOH-deez) A genus 60 species of epiphytic or

semiterrestrial orchids from tropical America, allied to Catasetum and Cycnoches. It
was described by Lindley in 1836, the name alluding to the strange appearance of
the asymmetric flowers.

morphogenesis (mor-foh-JEN-eh-sis) The process through which an embryo or

cultured tissue develops into the final adult form.

morphology (mor-FOLL-oh-jee) The branch of biology that deals with the form and
structure of plants and animals without regard to functional processes.
Mormolyca (mor-moh-LYE-ka) The six epiphytic species in this genus come
from Central America and northern South America. Fenzl founded the genus in
1850, coining the name from the Greek word meaning "hobgoblin," a reference to
the appearance of the flower when viewed from the side.

moscifera (ma-SKIFF-er-a) Bearing flies; alluding to the resemblance of some

flowers to a fly.

moschatus, -a, -um (mos-KAY-tus) Musk-scented.

mucilaginous (mew-suh-LAJ-uh-nuhs) Mucilagelike or slimy

mucosus, -a, -um (mew-KOH-sus) With a slimy covering or secretion.

mucro (MEW-kro) A short and small abrupt tip.

mucronatus, -a, -um (mew-kron-AY-tus) Tipped with a mucro; pointed; mucronate.

mucronulatus, -a, -um (mew-KRON-ule-aye-tus) Having a small mucron, or sharp,

pointed tip, used to describe the leaf apices of many orchids.

mule (mewl) An old term for a hybrid cross, particularly between different species; a
hybrid.

multiflorus, -a, -um (mul-tee-FLOR-us) Many-flowered.

multigeneric (mul-tee-jen-AIR-ik) Of many genera; usually used in reference to

hybrids combining several genera.

muralis, -e (mew-RAY-lis) Growing on walls.

muricatus, -a, -um (mew-ri-KAY-tus) Roughened with short, hard prominences;

muricate.

muscariformis, -e (mus-ka-ree-FOR-miss) In the form of a brush or flybrush.

muscosus, -a, -um (mus-KOH-sus) Resembling a moss.

mutabilis, -e (mew-TAB-il-is) Changeable, especially as to color.

mutant (mew-TANT) An individual resulting from a mutation.

mutation (mew-TAY-shun) A change in the amount of chemical structure of DNA,

resulting in a change in characteristics of a cell or organism; an individual resulting
from such a change.

muticous ( mew-TEE-kos) Blunt or pointless.

muticus, -a, -um (MEW-tik-us) Blunt; without a point.

mycelium (mye-SEE-lee-um) Vegetative part of a fungus composed of threads or

hyphae.

mycorrhiza (my-koh-RHYZ-ah) The condition of having symbiotic fungi associated

with roots, the usual condition in orchids as well as other plant families such as the
Ericaceae, or heath family.

Myoxanthus (my-oxs-AN-thus) About 40 creeping epiphytic species make up

this genus that comes from Central America and South America. The genus was
described in 1835 by Poeppig and Endlicher, who coined the name from two Greek
words meaning "dormouse" and "flower," probably to denote how they viewed these
flowers.

myrianthus, -a, -um (meer-ee-AN-thus) Innumerable-flowered.

Myrmecophila: Ants inhabit old pseudobulbs

of Myrmecophila tibicinis.
Myrmecophila (mer-me-KOFF-ill-ah) There are eight epiphytic species in this
tropical Central and South American and West Indies genus. Rolfe established the
genus in 1917, deriving the name from two Greek words meaning "an ant" and "a
friend" to describe the association of ants with these species. Ants form colonies in
the hollow pseudobulbs.

myrmecophilous (mer-me-KOFF-ill-us) Ant-loving; inhabited by ants.Mystacidium

(miss-ta-SID-ee-um) A genus of nine species of epiphytic orchids from Africa. Allied
to Aerangis and Angraecum, it was established by Lindley in 1836, the name derived
from the Greek and referring to the bearded appendages of the column

N
naevius, -a, -um (NEE-vi-us) Freckled.

Nageliella (NAY-gel-ee-ELL-ah) A genus of two species of Mesoamerican orchids

related to Epidendrum and Scaphyglottis. It was established in 1940 by Louis O.
Williams, the name honoring the contemporary collector of Mexican orchids, Otto
Nagel.

naked (NAY-ked) Wanting its usual covering or lacking certain organs as leaves,
pubescence, etc.

nanellus, -a, -um (nan-ELL-us) Very dwarf.

nanus, -a, -um (NAY-us) Dwarf.

napiformis, -e (nap-i-FOR-miss) Turnip-shaped; more or less short-fusiform; broader

than high and abruptly tapering both ways; napiform.

nascent (NAY-scent) In the process of being formed, as in meristematic tissue

nasutus, -a, -um (nas-OO-tus) Large-nosed.

natans (NAY-tanz) Floating.

 natural:
Lycaste x sulphurea is a natural hybrid between Lyc. deppei and Lyc. cruenta.
natural hybrid (NACH-er-uhl HYE-brid) A hybrid produced in the wild, in contrast to
an artificial hybrid produced by man.

naturalized (NACH-er-uhl-eyzd) Said of plants from foreign areas that have become
established.

natural selection (NACH-er-uhl SEE-lek-shun) The process of evolution that results

in the differential survival and reproduction of those individuals best adapted to their
environment.

navicularis, -e (nav-ik-yew-LAY-ris) Boat-shaped; cymbiform; navicular.

nebulosus, -a, -um (neb-yew-LOH-sus) Clouded; cloudlike; also applied to a plant

found growing at a high elevation.

necrotic (ne-KROT-ik) The condition of cells and tissues killed through disease or
injury.

nectar (NEK-ter) The saccharine secretion of a plant that rewards the animal vectors
that pollinate the flower.

nectariferous (nek-tar-IF-fer-us) Nectar-bearing.

nectary (NEK-tar-ee) A nectar-secreting organ or part, such as the spurs of many

orchids.

neglectus, -a, -um (neg-LEK-tus) A plant hitherto disregarded or overlooked.

nemoralis, -e (nem-oh-RAY-lis) Growing in groves or shady places; nemoral.

neo- (NEE-oh) A prefix meaning new.

Neobathiea (nee-oh-BATH-ee-a) There are seven epiphytic species in this genus

native to Madagascar and the Comoros. Schlechter founded the genus in 1925,
naming it in honor of Henri Perrier de la B—thie, who authored the Orchidaceae of
Madagascar.

Neobenthamia (nee-oh-ben-THAM-ee-ah) A monotypic genus of terrestrial African

orchids. Related to Polystachya, it was described by Rolfe in 1891, honoring the
English botanist George Bentham.

Neocogniauxia (nee-oh-kohn-YOH-zee-ah) A genus of two West Indian orchids

originally thought to be related to Laelia, it was established in 1913 by Schlechter
and dedicated to the Belgian botanist Alfred Celestin Cogniaux; it accommodates the
species formerly known as Laelia monophylla and L. hexaptera. Neocogniauxia is
now known to belong to the Pleurothallidinae.

Neoescobaria (nee-oh-ess-ko-BAR-ee-a) The two epiphytic species in this genus

come from the Andes in South America. Garay described the genus in 1972, naming
it honor of the well-known Colombian orchid grower Don Gilberto Escobar R.

Neofinetia: Neofinetia falcata is the single species in

the genus.

Neofinetia (nee-oh-fin-EH-tee-ah) A monotypic genus of epiphytic orchids

from Japan, Korea and the Ryukyus related to Ascocentrum and resembling
Angraecum. The genus was established by H.H. Hu in 1925 and dedicated to M.
Achille Finet, a French botanist who worked on the orchids of China and Japan.

Neogardneria (nee-oh-gard-NEHR-ee-a) A monotypic Brazilian genus. Schlechter

founded the genus in 1921, naming it in honor of George Gardner, who collected
orchids in Brazil in the early 1800s.

Neolauchea (nee-oh-LOWK-ee-a) See Isabelia.

Neomoorea: The only species in the genus

is Neomoorea wallisii.
Neomoorea (nee-oh-MORE-ee-ah) A monotypic genus of epiphytic or lithophytic
orchids from northern South America and Panama, allied to Houlletia, it was founded
by Rolfe in 1904, being dedicated to F.W. Moore, curator at Glasnevin and an orchid
fancier.

Neostylis (nee-oh-STY-liss) A hybrid genus between Neofinetia and Rhynchostylis

created in 1965.

Neotropical (nee-oh-trop-ih-kuhl) Of, pertaining to or designating the region

comprising South America, the West Indies and tropical North America.

Neottia (nee-OTT-ee-ah) A genus of nine species of saprophytic orchids found

chiefly in the boreal regions of the Old World. Related to Listera, Neottia was
established by Linnaeus in 1735, the name alluding to the fancied resemblance of
the clustered roots to a bird's nest.

Nephelaphyllum (neff-el-a-FIL-um) The 16 terrestrial species in this genus come

from Southeast Asia, ranging from India east to the Malay Peninsular. Blume
described the genus in 1825, coining the name from two Greek words for "cloud" and
"leaf" to denote the mottling on the leaves.

nephroid (NEFF-royd) Kidney-shaped; reniform.

nervation (ner-VAY-shun) See venosus.

nerve (nerv) A vein or slender rib, particularly if not branched.

Nervilia (ner-VILL-ee-ah) A genus of 65 species of unusual terrestrial orchids from

the tropical and subtropical areas of Asia and Africa and the Pacific noted for their
rather attractive, solitary, heart-shaped leaves. It was described in 1826 by
Gaudichaud, who attributed it to Commerson.

nervosus, -a, -um (ner-VOH-sus) Prominently nerved; nervose.

netted (net-ed) Marked with reticulated lines or veins.

neuter (new-ter) Said of a flower lacking reproductive structures.

neutral (new-truhl)A chemical condition of water or moist soil in which acid and
alkaline constituents are exactly balanced; pH 7.

Nichols, William H. (1885—1951) Australian orchidologist and illustrator, author of

Orchids of Australia (1951—1958).

Nidema: Nidema boothii is one of two species in this

genus.
Nidema (nye-DEE-ma) The two epiphytic species in this genus range from Mexico
south to Panama. Britton and Millspaugh founded the genus in 1920. The name is an
anagram of the generic name Dinema.

nidulatus, -a, -um (nid-yew-LAY-tus) Nested; like or borne in a nidus or nest;

nidulate.

niger, nigra, nigrum (NYE-jer) Black.

nigrescens (nye-GRESS-enz) Blackish; nigrescent.

nitidus, -a, -um (NIT-id-us) Shining; nitidous; nitid

nitens (NYE-tenz) Shining; becoming shiny.

nivalis, -e (niv-AY-lis) Snowy white; nival.

niveus, -a, -um (NIV-ee-us) Snowy; snow-white; growing near snow.

nobilis, -e (NOH-bil-is) Eminent; remarkable for fine qualities; noble.

nocturnal (nok-TER-nuhl) Of the night; used in reference to flowers that open after
dark or having fragrance only at night.

nocturnus, -a, -um (nok-TERN-us) Night-flowering; blooming at night.

node (no-d) A joint on a stem or pseudobulb that normally bears a bract, a leaf, a
whorl of leaves or a root.

nodosus, -a, -um (noh-DOH-sus) Having many joints or nodes; knotty; knobbed;
nodose.

nodule (nah-dewyl) A small node

nomenclature (NOH-men-klay-cher) A set or system of names and naming.

notatus, -a, -um (noh-TAY-tus) Spotted; marked.

 Notylia: Notylia barkeri is a popular miniature orchid.

Notylia (noh-TILL-ee-ah) A genus of 50 species of compact, small-flowered

epiphytic or lithophytic orchids from tropical America. It was established by Lindley in
1825, the name meaning "humpback," alluding to an unusual hump or callosity on
the stigma, a character shared by its segregate genus Macroclinium.

nubigenus, -a, -um (new-bi-JEN-us) Born among the clouds; from a high elevation.

nucleus (NEW-klee-us) The central dense structure of a cell where DNA is

replicated and transcribed.

nucleolus (new-klee-OH-lus) A sharply defined point in the nucleus of a cell where

ribosomal RNA is synthesized.

nudus, -a, -um (NEW-dus) Naked; bare; nude.

nutans (NEW-tanz) Nodding; nutant.

nutrient (new-TREE-ent) A substance used or required for food by an organism.

nutrient solution (new-TREE-ent suh-LEW-shun) An aqueous solution of chemicals

or natural substances required for growth or germination.

nutrition (new-TRIH-shun) The act or process by which an organism obtains energy

and chemicals from the environment for survival or growth
O
ob- (ob) A prefix, meaning inversely or oppositely.

obcompressed (ob-kuhm-PREST) Flattened dorso-ventrally, instead of laterally

obconical (ob-KON-i-kuhl) Inversely conical; having the attachment at the apex.

obcordatus, -a, -um (ahb-kor-DAY-tus) Inversely cordate; heart-shaped with the

attachment at the apex, obcordate.

Oberonia (oh-ber-OH-nee-ah) A genus of 300 species of equitant-leaved

epiphytic orchids distributed from East Africa to Samoa, it is related to Liparis and
was described in 1830 by Lindley, who dedicated it to Oberon, king of the fairies.

ochroleucous (oh-kro-LEW-kus) Yellowish white

oblanceolate: The leaves of Masdevallia datura are

oblanceolate.
oblanceolate (ob-LAN-see-oh-layt) Inversely lanceolate, with the broadest part
toward the apex.

oblique (ob-leek) Having unequal sides; asymmetrical; slanting.

oblong (ob-long) Being longer than broad, and with the sides nearly parallel.

oblongifolius, -a, -um (ob-long-gi-FOH-lee-us) With oblong leaves.

obovate (ob-OH-vayt) Inversely ovate; ovate with the narrow end at the base.

obovoid (ob-OH-voyd) Inversely ovoid; egg shaped with the narrow end at the base.

obryzatus, -a, -um (oh-bry-ZAY-tus) Pure gold color.

obsolescent (ob-suh-LES-uhnt) Becoming rudimentary; gradually disappearing or

imperfectly developed.

obsolete (ob-suh-leet) Imperfectly developed or rudimentary.

obtusus, -a, -um (ob-TOO-sus) Blunt or rounded at the tip; having an angle greater
than 90 degrees.

obtusifolius, -a, -um (ob-too-si-FOH-lee-us) Blunt-leaved.

ocellatus, -a, -um (oh-sell-LAY-tus) With an eye; having a circular spot of one color
inside a larger spot or area of another color.

ochraceus, -a, -um (oh-KRAY-see-us) Yellowish, ocher-colored; ochraceous.

ocreate (oh-KREE-ayt) Having stipules that sheath.

Octomeria (ok-toh-MER-ee-ah) A genus of 135 species of epiphytic orchids

from the American tropics, related to Pleurothallis, it was described in 1813 by
Robert Brown, the name alluding to the eight pollinia.
 oculata: Stanhopea oculata has two dark spots that look
like eyes.
oculatus, -a, -um (ok-yew-LAY-tus) Having one or more dark spots like eyes;
oculate.

Odontioda (oh-don-tee-OH-dah) A hybrid genus between Cochlioda and

Odontoglossum created in 1906.

odontochilus, -a, -um (oh-don-toh-KYE-lus) Having a toothed lip. Also a genus of

terrestrial orchids from Asia and the Pacific.

Odontocidium (oh-don-toh-SID-ee-um) A hybrid genus between Odontoglossum and

Oncidium created in 1911.

Odontoglossum (oh-don-toh-GLOSS-um) A genus of 140 species of showy

epiphytic orchids from tropical America belonging to the Oncidium alliance. It was
established by Humboldt, Bonpland and Kunth in 1815, the name referring to the
toothed crest on the lip of most of the species. Now officially included in the genus
Oncidium.

Odontonia (oh-don-TOE-nee-ah) A hybrid genus between Odontoglossum and

Miltonia (including Miltoniopsis) created in 1905.

odoratus, -a, -um (oh-do-RAY-tus) Fragrant.

odoratissimus, -a, -um (oh-door-a-TISS-i-mus) Very fragrant.

 Oeceoclades: Oeceoclades maculata has become a
weed in Florida.
Oeceoclades (ee-see-oh-CLAY-dees) A Pantropical terrestrial genus of 31 species
closely allied to and sometimes included in a broadly defined Eulophia, formerly
known as Eulophidium. Lindley described the genus in 1832, deriving the generic
name from two Greek works for "private" and "branch," to indicate forming a private
branch from Angraecum.

Oeonia (oh-ee-oh-NEE-a) There are five epiphytic species in this genus from
Madagascar and the Mascarene Islands. Lindley founded the genus in 1824,
deriving the generic name from the Greek word for "bird of prey," an allusion to the
flowers that slightly resemble birds.

Oersted: Lockhartia oerstedii honors Anders S. Oersted.

Oersted, Anders S. (1816-1872) Nineteenth-century Danish plant collector and
ecologist, particularly important to early Costa Rican phytography.

Oerstedella (ewer-sted-ELL-ah) A former Neotropical genus of 32 species of

reedy plants now included in Epidendrum, characterized by verruculose leaf sheaths.
H.G. Reichenbach described the genus in 1852, naming it in honor of Andre Santoe
Oersted, who collected the original material.

officinalis, -e (oh-fiss-in-AY-lis) Kept in stock by apothecaries. Typically refers to

species of ethnobotanical interest.

offset (off-set) A short lateral shoot that may produce another plant; an offshoot.

oleaginous (oh-lee-AJ-in-us) Having the nature or quality of oil.

oliganthis, -a, -um (ol-ig-ANTH-us) With few flowers.

olivaceus, -a, -um (ol-iv-AY-see-us) Greenish brown; olive-colored; olivaceous.

oncidioides (on-sid-ee-OY-deez) Resembling an Oncidium.

Oncidium (on-SID-ee-um) A large genus of epiphytic orchids from tropical

America, it was founded by Swartz in 1800, the name alluding to the warty callus on
the lip of the species in the genus. The count of species in the genus varies from
less than 300 to over 1000 depending on how broadly the genus is circumscribed.

ontogeny The process of development of an organ toward maturity.

opaque Dull; neither shining nor translucent.

operculate (oh-PERK-yew-layt) Lidlike, as some anthers, or furnished with a lid.

operculum (oh-PERK-yew-lum) A cap or lid of an organ, usually shed by

circumscissile dehiscence; in orchids, the anther cap.

Ophrys (OFF-riss) A genus of 25 species of terrestrial orchids from the North

Temperate Zone of Europe, Africa and Asia, especially around the Mediterranean
Sea, established by Linnaeus in 1753, the name derived from the Greek, meaning
"eyebrow."

Opsistylis (op-si-STY-lis) A hybrid genus between Rhynchostylis and Vandopsis

created in 1970.
opposite (OP-uh-zit) Said of a plant having two leaves at the same node

orbicularis, -e (or-bik-yew-LAY-ris) Having a rounded outline; disc-shaped; orbicular.

orbiculatus, -a, -um (or-bik-yew-LAY-tus) Disc-shaped; orbiculate.

Orchidaceae (or-ki-DAY-see-ee) The largest family of flowering plants including

terrestrial and epiphytic herbs from both temperate and tropical regions. A
cosmopolitan group related to lilies, palms, grasses and other monocotyledonous
plants, the flowers are usually characterized by their bilateral symmetry and the
possession of a column representing the fusion of both the male and female
reproductive organs.

orchidist (ore-KID-ist) One whose interest in orchids is primarily horticultural.

orchidologist (ore-KID-oll-uh-jist) One who specializes in the study of orchids,

particularly their evolution and relationships.

orchidology (ore-KID-oll-uh-gee) The branch of technical botany that deals with

orchids and their study.

Orchis (ORE-kiss) There are 30 terrestrial species in this genus widely

distributed in Europe and Asia, all the way to China. Carl von Linné founded the
genus in 1753, selecting the Greek word meaning "testicle" to describe the two
tubers found on these plants.

organelle (ore-GAN-ell) An organized structure within the cell that has a specialized
function.

orifice (ore-uh-FISS) An opening.

originator (uh-RIJ-uh-NAY-ter) In reference to the registration of an orchid hybrid,

the owner (or his assignee) of the seed-bearing parent at the time of pollination.

Ornithocephalus (or-nith-oh-SEFF-al-us) A genus of 28 species of pseudobulbless

fan-shaped epiphytes from the American tropics. Related to Phymatidium and
Zygostates, it was established by Hooker in 1825, the name alluding to the
resemblance of the column and anther to the head of a bird.
Ornithochilus (or-nith-oh-KYE-luss) The three monopodial epiphytes in this genus
come from Southeast Asia, ranging from the Himalayas east to the Malay Peninsula.
Lindley founded the genus in 1833, deriving the generic name from two Greek words
for "bird" and "lip" to denote the birdlike lips on these flowers.

Ornithophora (or-nith-oh-FORE-a) A monotypic genus native to Brazil. Barbosa-

Rodrigues described the genus in 1881, coining the generic name from two Greek
words meaning "bird" and "bearing," referring to the column, which appears birdlike
in side view.

ornithorhynchus, -a, -um (or-nith-oh-RINK-us) Resembling the beak of a bird.

ortho- (or-tho) A word element meaning "straight" or "upright."

Osmoglossum (oz-moh-GLOSS-um) The three epiphytic species in this genus come

from Central America. Schlechter established the genus in 1916, deriving the generic
name from two Greek words meaning "scent or odor" and "lip" to denote the
fragrance of the flowers.

osmosis (oz-MOH-sis) Diffusion of a solvent such as water through a

semipermeable membrane from a dilute to a concentrated solution.

osmundine: Osmunda was once very popular for potting

orchids.
osmundine (oz-MUN-deen) The cut fibrous roots of ferns of the genus Osmunda
used as a growing medium for epiphytic orchids; osmunda.

Otochilus (oh-toh-KYE-lus) The four creeping epiphytic species in this genus range
from the Himalayas east to Thailand. The genus was founded by Lindley in 1830. He
derived the generic name from two Greek words meaning "ear" and "lip," however,
the reason behind the naming is not clear.

Otoglossum (oh-toh-GLOSS-um) This genus of seven epiphytic species comes from

Central and South America, ranging from Costa Rica south to Peru. Schlechter
described these species as a section of Odontoglossum in 1924 and in 1976 Garay
and Dunsterville raised the section to the generic level.

ovalis, -e (oh-VAY-liss) Broadly elliptic in shape; oval.

ovary (OH-vah-ree) The part of an orchid flower that becomes the fruit following
pollination and fertilization. It contains the ovules, which, if fertilized, become the
seeds; in orchids, the ovary is combined with the pedicel to form the pedicellate
ovary beneath the flower.

ovatus, -a, -um (oh-VAY-tus) Shaped like the outline of an egg, with the broader end
downward; ovate.

overpot (OH-ver-pot) To pot an orchid in a container larger than necessary, allowing

more freedom for root growth or for greater plant growth, or allowing for a greater
time interval before repotting; in inexperienced hands, this can be detrimental to the
plant.

overwater (OH-ver-wah-ter) To keep the medium too wet or too damp, usually
degrading the roots and eventually preventing the plant from absorbing needed
water and nutrients.

ovoid (OH-voyd) Egg shaped, the larger end toward the stem or axis; used in a
three-dimensional sense as opposed to ovate.

ovulate (OV-yuh-layt) Bearing ovules

ovule (OV-yewl) One of the young bodies in the ovary that, upon fertilization,
develop into a seed; the female gametophyte.

ovuliferus, -a, -um (oh-vyew-LIF-er-us) Ovule-bearing.

O
ob- (ob) A prefix, meaning inversely or oppositely.

obcompressed (ob-kuhm-PREST) Flattened dorso-ventrally, instead of laterally

obconical (ob-KON-i-kuhl) Inversely conical; having the attachment at the apex.

obcordatus, -a, -um (ahb-kor-DAY-tus) Inversely cordate; heart-shaped with the

attachment at the apex, obcordate.

Oberonia (oh-ber-OH-nee-ah) A genus of 300 species of equitant-leaved

epiphytic orchids distributed from East Africa to Samoa, it is related to Liparis and
was described in 1830 by Lindley, who dedicated it to Oberon, king of the fairies.

ochroleucous (oh-kro-LEW-kus) Yellowish white

oblanceolate: The leaves of Masdevallia datura are

oblanceolate.
oblanceolate (ob-LAN-see-oh-layt) Inversely lanceolate, with the broadest part
toward the apex.

oblique (ob-leek) Having unequal sides; asymmetrical; slanting.

oblong (ob-long) Being longer than broad, and with the sides nearly parallel.

oblongifolius, -a, -um (ob-long-gi-FOH-lee-us) With oblong leaves.

obovate (ob-OH-vayt) Inversely ovate; ovate with the narrow end at the base.

obovoid (ob-OH-voyd) Inversely ovoid; egg shaped with the narrow end at the base.

obryzatus, -a, -um (oh-bry-ZAY-tus) Pure gold color.

obsolescent (ob-suh-LES-uhnt) Becoming rudimentary; gradually disappearing or

imperfectly developed.

obsolete (ob-suh-leet) Imperfectly developed or rudimentary.

obtusus, -a, -um (ob-TOO-sus) Blunt or rounded at the tip; having an angle greater
than 90 degrees.

obtusifolius, -a, -um (ob-too-si-FOH-lee-us) Blunt-leaved.

ocellatus, -a, -um (oh-sell-LAY-tus) With an eye; having a circular spot of one color
inside a larger spot or area of another color.

ochraceus, -a, -um (oh-KRAY-see-us) Yellowish, ocher-colored; ochraceous.

ocreate (oh-KREE-ayt) Having stipules that sheath.

Octomeria (ok-toh-MER-ee-ah) A genus of 135 species of epiphytic orchids

from the American tropics, related to Pleurothallis, it was described in 1813 by
Robert Brown, the name alluding to the eight pollinia.
 oculata: Stanhopea oculata has two dark spots that look
like eyes.
oculatus, -a, -um (ok-yew-LAY-tus) Having one or more dark spots like eyes;
oculate.

Odontioda (oh-don-tee-OH-dah) A hybrid genus between Cochlioda and

Odontoglossum created in 1906.

odontochilus, -a, -um (oh-don-toh-KYE-lus) Having a toothed lip. Also a genus of

terrestrial orchids from Asia and the Pacific.

Odontocidium (oh-don-toh-SID-ee-um) A hybrid genus between Odontoglossum and

Oncidium created in 1911.

Odontoglossum (oh-don-toh-GLOSS-um) A genus of 140 species of showy

epiphytic orchids from tropical America belonging to the Oncidium alliance. It was
established by Humboldt, Bonpland and Kunth in 1815, the name referring to the
toothed crest on the lip of most of the species. Now officially included in the genus
Oncidium.

Odontonia (oh-don-TOE-nee-ah) A hybrid genus between Odontoglossum and

Miltonia (including Miltoniopsis) created in 1905.

odoratus, -a, -um (oh-do-RAY-tus) Fragrant.

odoratissimus, -a, -um (oh-door-a-TISS-i-mus) Very fragrant.

 Oeceoclades: Oeceoclades maculata has become a
weed in Florida.
Oeceoclades (ee-see-oh-CLAY-dees) A Pantropical terrestrial genus of 31 species
closely allied to and sometimes included in a broadly defined Eulophia, formerly
known as Eulophidium. Lindley described the genus in 1832, deriving the generic
name from two Greek works for "private" and "branch," to indicate forming a private
branch from Angraecum.

Oeonia (oh-ee-oh-NEE-a) There are five epiphytic species in this genus from
Madagascar and the Mascarene Islands. Lindley founded the genus in 1824,
deriving the generic name from the Greek word for "bird of prey," an allusion to the
flowers that slightly resemble birds.

Oersted: Lockhartia oerstedii honors Anders S. Oersted.

Oersted, Anders S. (1816-1872) Nineteenth-century Danish plant collector and
ecologist, particularly important to early Costa Rican phytography.

Oerstedella (ewer-sted-ELL-ah) A former Neotropical genus of 32 species of

reedy plants now included in Epidendrum, characterized by verruculose leaf sheaths.
H.G. Reichenbach described the genus in 1852, naming it in honor of Andre Santoe
Oersted, who collected the original material.

officinalis, -e (oh-fiss-in-AY-lis) Kept in stock by apothecaries. Typically refers to

species of ethnobotanical interest.

offset (off-set) A short lateral shoot that may produce another plant; an offshoot.

oleaginous (oh-lee-AJ-in-us) Having the nature or quality of oil.

oliganthis, -a, -um (ol-ig-ANTH-us) With few flowers.

olivaceus, -a, -um (ol-iv-AY-see-us) Greenish brown; olive-colored; olivaceous.

oncidioides (on-sid-ee-OY-deez) Resembling an Oncidium.

Oncidium (on-SID-ee-um) A large genus of epiphytic orchids from tropical

America, it was founded by Swartz in 1800, the name alluding to the warty callus on
the lip of the species in the genus. The count of species in the genus varies from
less than 300 to over 1000 depending on how broadly the genus is circumscribed.

ontogeny The process of development of an organ toward maturity.

opaque Dull; neither shining nor translucent.

operculate (oh-PERK-yew-layt) Lidlike, as some anthers, or furnished with a lid.

operculum (oh-PERK-yew-lum) A cap or lid of an organ, usually shed by

circumscissile dehiscence; in orchids, the anther cap.

Ophrys (OFF-riss) A genus of 25 species of terrestrial orchids from the North

Temperate Zone of Europe, Africa and Asia, especially around the Mediterranean
Sea, established by Linnaeus in 1753, the name derived from the Greek, meaning
"eyebrow."

Opsistylis (op-si-STY-lis) A hybrid genus between Rhynchostylis and Vandopsis

created in 1970.
opposite (OP-uh-zit) Said of a plant having two leaves at the same node

orbicularis, -e (or-bik-yew-LAY-ris) Having a rounded outline; disc-shaped; orbicular.

orbiculatus, -a, -um (or-bik-yew-LAY-tus) Disc-shaped; orbiculate.

Orchidaceae (or-ki-DAY-see-ee) The largest family of flowering plants including

terrestrial and epiphytic herbs from both temperate and tropical regions. A
cosmopolitan group related to lilies, palms, grasses and other monocotyledonous
plants, the flowers are usually characterized by their bilateral symmetry and the
possession of a column representing the fusion of both the male and female
reproductive organs.

orchidist (ore-KID-ist) One whose interest in orchids is primarily horticultural.

orchidologist (ore-KID-oll-uh-jist) One who specializes in the study of orchids,

particularly their evolution and relationships.

orchidology (ore-KID-oll-uh-gee) The branch of technical botany that deals with

orchids and their study.

Orchis (ORE-kiss) There are 30 terrestrial species in this genus widely

distributed in Europe and Asia, all the way to China. Carl von Linné founded the
genus in 1753, selecting the Greek word meaning "testicle" to describe the two
tubers found on these plants.

organelle (ore-GAN-ell) An organized structure within the cell that has a specialized
function.

orifice (ore-uh-FISS) An opening.

originator (uh-RIJ-uh-NAY-ter) In reference to the registration of an orchid hybrid,

the owner (or his assignee) of the seed-bearing parent at the time of pollination.

Ornithocephalus (or-nith-oh-SEFF-al-us) A genus of 28 species of pseudobulbless

fan-shaped epiphytes from the American tropics. Related to Phymatidium and
Zygostates, it was established by Hooker in 1825, the name alluding to the
resemblance of the column and anther to the head of a bird.
Ornithochilus (or-nith-oh-KYE-luss) The three monopodial epiphytes in this genus
come from Southeast Asia, ranging from the Himalayas east to the Malay Peninsula.
Lindley founded the genus in 1833, deriving the generic name from two Greek words
for "bird" and "lip" to denote the birdlike lips on these flowers.

Ornithophora (or-nith-oh-FORE-a) A monotypic genus native to Brazil. Barbosa-

Rodrigues described the genus in 1881, coining the generic name from two Greek
words meaning "bird" and "bearing," referring to the column, which appears birdlike
in side view.

ornithorhynchus, -a, -um (or-nith-oh-RINK-us) Resembling the beak of a bird.

ortho- (or-tho) A word element meaning "straight" or "upright."

Osmoglossum (oz-moh-GLOSS-um) The three epiphytic species in this genus come

from Central America. Schlechter established the genus in 1916, deriving the generic
name from two Greek words meaning "scent or odor" and "lip" to denote the
fragrance of the flowers.

osmosis (oz-MOH-sis) Diffusion of a solvent such as water through a

semipermeable membrane from a dilute to a concentrated solution.

osmundine: Osmunda was once very popular for potting

orchids.
osmundine (oz-MUN-deen) The cut fibrous roots of ferns of the genus Osmunda
used as a growing medium for epiphytic orchids; osmunda.

Otochilus (oh-toh-KYE-lus) The four creeping epiphytic species in this genus range
from the Himalayas east to Thailand. The genus was founded by Lindley in 1830. He
derived the generic name from two Greek words meaning "ear" and "lip," however,
the reason behind the naming is not clear.

Otoglossum (oh-toh-GLOSS-um) This genus of seven epiphytic species comes from

Central and South America, ranging from Costa Rica south to Peru. Schlechter
described these species as a section of Odontoglossum in 1924 and in 1976 Garay
and Dunsterville raised the section to the generic level.

ovalis, -e (oh-VAY-liss) Broadly elliptic in shape; oval.

ovary (OH-vah-ree) The part of an orchid flower that becomes the fruit following
pollination and fertilization. It contains the ovules, which, if fertilized, become the
seeds; in orchids, the ovary is combined with the pedicel to form the pedicellate
ovary beneath the flower.

ovatus, -a, -um (oh-VAY-tus) Shaped like the outline of an egg, with the broader end
downward; ovate.

overpot (OH-ver-pot) To pot an orchid in a container larger than necessary, allowing

more freedom for root growth or for greater plant growth, or allowing for a greater
time interval before repotting; in inexperienced hands, this can be detrimental to the
plant.

overwater (OH-ver-wah-ter) To keep the medium too wet or too damp, usually
degrading the roots and eventually preventing the plant from absorbing needed
water and nutrients.

ovoid (OH-voyd) Egg shaped, the larger end toward the stem or axis; used in a
three-dimensional sense as opposed to ovate.

ovulate (OV-yuh-layt) Bearing ovules

ovule (OV-yewl) One of the young bodies in the ovary that, upon fertilization,
develop into a seed; the female gametophyte.

ovuliferus, -a, -um (oh-vyew-LIF-er-us) Ovule-bearing.

P
Pabst, Guido Frederico Joao (1914—1980) Dynamic Brazilian orchidologist whose
many publications include the comprehensive Orchidaceae Brasiliensis with F.
Dungs.

Pabstia (PABST-ee-a)The five epiphytic species in this genus are native to tropical
Brazil. Garay removed them from Colax in 1973, naming the new genus in honor of
Guido Pabst, co-author of Orchidaceae Brasiliensis.

pachyphyllus, -a, -um (pak-ee-FILL-us) Thick-leaved.

pallens (PAL-lenz) Becoming pale or light in color.

pallidus, -a, -um (PAL-li-dus) Pale, pallid.

palmatus, -a, -um (pal-MAY-tus) Lobed and radiating like the fingers; palmate.

paludosus, -a, -um (pal-yew-DOH-sus) Growing in marshes; paludose.

Palumbina (pal-um-BEE-na) A monotypic epiphytic genus from Guatemala.

H.G. Reichenbach described the genus in 1863, deriving the generic name from the
Greek word "belonging to a dove," probably a reference to the white flowers, as
white is associated with doves. The single species is now correctly, Cuitlauzina
candida.

palustris, -e (pal-US-triss) Growing in marshes; palustrine.

pan A form of pot that is broader and shallower than the regular type. These are also
known as azalea pots or bulb pans.

pandurata: Coelogyne pandurata has a lip shaped like a violin.

panduratus, -a, -um (pan-dew-RAY-tus) Shaped like a violin; pandurate.

panduriformis, -e (pan-dew-ri-FOR-miss) Fiddle-shaped; panduriform.

panicle (PAN-i-kul) A loosely arranged branched inflorescence, blooming from the
center or lower branches to the outer ends or top.

paniculate (pan-IK-yew-layt) Having an inflorescence resembling a panicle.

paniculatus, -a, -um (pan-ik-yew-LAY-tus) With flowers arranged in a paniculate

manner.

Panisea (pan-EE-see-a) The seven species in this genus may be either epiphytic or
lithophytic and come from Southeast Asia, mainly Nepal and India. Lund founded the
genus in 1987 by removing these species from Coelogyne. He derived the generic
name from two Greek words meaning "all" and "equal" due to the similarity between
the sepals and petals.

pannose (pan-noze) Having the texture of felt or woven cloth.

Pantling, Robert (1856—1910) British botanist, co-author, with George King, of the
monumental The Orchids of the Sikkim-Himalaya (1898).

Paphinia (paff-EE-nee-a) The five epiphytic species in this genus range from
Guatemala south to northern South America. Lindley described the genus in 1843,
using the Cypriot name for Aphrodite as the generic name.

Paphiopedilum (paff-ee-oh-PED-i-lum) A genus of about 60 species of the

lady's-slipper orchids from the Asiatic tropics, formerly included in the genus
Cypripedium, the name having been proposed by Pfitzer in 1886 in allusion to the
slipper-shaped lip.

Q
quadratus, -a, -um (kwad-RAY-tus) Four-sided; quadrate.
 quadricolor: Cattleya quadricolor has four-colored
flowers.
quadricolor (KWAD-ri-ko-lor) Four-colored.

quadricornis, -e (kwad-ri-KOR-niss) Four-horned.

quadrigeneric (kwad-ri-jen-AIR-ik) Pertaining to four genera; used particularly in

reference to hybrids combining members of four genera.

quaquaversal (kwa-kwa-VER-sal) Turning or twisting in any direction.

quaternatus, -a, -um (kwa-ter-NAY-tus) In fours; quaternate.

quinatus, -a, -um (kwin-AY-tus) In fives.

quinquenervis, -e (kwin-kwe-NER-viss) Having five nerves or veins.

quinquepartitus, -a, -um (kwin-kwe-par-TYE-tus) Being five-parted.

quinquevulnera: Aerides quinquevulnera is

named for the crimson tips of the petals and sepals.
quinquevulnerus, -a, -um (kwin-kwe-vul-NER-us) Having five wounds, or blood-red
spots.

Quisumbing, Eduardo (1895—1986) Philippine botanist who collaborated extensively

with Oakes Ames on modern study of Philippine orchids, he is commemorated by
many orchids including Tuberolabium quisumbingii.

papilio: The flowers of Psychopsis

papilio var. alba resemble a butterfly.
papilio (pa-PILL-ee-oh) A butterfly.

Papilionanthe (pap-ill-ee-oh-NAN-thee) A genus of 10 species of Asian

orchids formerly included in Vanda and known in horticulture as terete-leaved
vandas, commonly grown landscape plants in the tropics and the usual flower of
orchid leis.

papillae (pa-PILL-ee) Minute nipplelike projections.

papillosus, -a, -um (pap-ill-OH-sus) Covered with nipple-like protuberances on the

surface; papillose.
 paraphalaenopsis: Paraphalaenopsis labukensis is one
of four species in the genus.

Paraphalaenopsis (pair-ah-fayl-e-NOP-sis) A genus of four species of

vandaceous orchids endemic to Borneo, characterized by terete leaves and
subumbellate inflorescences, named for the flowers' similar morphology to
Phalaenopsis.

paraphyletic (pair-ah-fy-LET-ick) Cladistic term for a group that does not include all
descendants of a common ancestor.

parasite A plant that grows on and derives part or all of its nourishment from another
plant, called the host.

pardinus, -a, -um (par-DYE-nus) Spotted like a leopard or panther.

parenchyma (puh-RENG-kuh-muh) Said of undifferentiated cells with thickened

walls.

parent (pare-ent) One of the two particular plants responsible for the production or
generation of a given plant or progeny.

parietal (pa-RYE-e-tal) Borne on the inner surface or wall surface of a capsule or

ovary.

Parish, Charles Samuel Pollock (1822—1897) An English missionary, stationed at

Moulmein, Burma, he collected, illustrated and introduced from that country many
fine orchids, such as Paphiopedilum parishii.

parted (par-ted) Cleft or cut almost to the base.

parthenogenesis (par-thin-oh-JEN-e-siss) The process by which a seed may
develop without fertilization; plants so produced have the genetic constitution of the
seed-bearing plant.

partitus, -a, -um (par-TYE-tus) Divided nearly to the base; partite.

partitioned (par-TISH-und) Divided in compartments or chambers by internal

horizontal walls.

parviflorus, -a, -um (par-vi-FLOR-us) Small-flowered.

parvus, -a, -um (PAR-vus) Small.

passerinus, -a, -um (pass-er-EYE-nus) Resembling or marked like a sparrow;

passerine.

patelliform (pah-TELL-ih-form) In the shape of a disc.

patens (PAY-tenz) Spreading.

patent (PA-tent) Expanded or spreading.

pathogen (PATH-oh-jen) A disease-producing organism.

pathological (path-oh-LOJ-i-kul) Diseased.

pathology (path-OLL-oh-jee) The science dealing with diseases, their causes,

results and cures.

patulus, -a, -um (PAT-yew-lus) Spreading, broad, flat; patulous.

paucus, -a, -um (PAW-kus) Few. In compound words pauci-.

Paxton, Sir Joseph (1801—1865) British gardener-orchidist who superintended the

orchid collection and grounds of the 6th Duke of Devonshire at Chatsworth. He
introduced Paxton's Magazine of Botany (1834) and was a founder of Gardener's
Chronicle. He invented and introduced inexpensive greenhouses for the general
populace and designed the Crystal Palace, a domed conservatory greenhouse, for
England's first Great Exhibition.

peat (peet) Any mass of semicarbonized vegetable tissue formed by a partial

decomposition in water of various plants, especially species of the moss genus
Sphagnum.

Pecteilis (peck-TILE-iss) An East Asian segregate of Habenaria, the nine species of

which are prized for their cranelike white flowers with spectacularly fringed labella.
Rafinesque described the genus in 1836, deriving the generic name from the Greek
work meaning "pectin" to describe the pectinate side lobes of the lip.

pectinatus, -a, -um (pek-ti-NAY-tus) Shaped like a comb, with narrow parallel
projections; pectinate.

pedalis, -e (ped-AY-lis) About one foot long.

pedatus, -a, -um (ped-AY-tus) Like a bird's foot; footlike; pedate.

pedicel: Cattleya longipes showing the pedicels.

pedicel (PED-i-sel) The ultimate division of a common peduncle; the stalk of an
individual flower; in orchids usually continuous with the inferior ovary.

pedicellate ovary (PED-i-sel-layt OH-va-ree) In orchids, the combined pedicel with

the ovary of the flower.

peduncle (pe-DUNK-ul) Stalk of a flower-cluster or of a flower. The stalk of an

inflorescence that bears the pedicels and flowers.
peduncularis, -e (pe-dunk-yew-LAY-riss) Having long peduncles or peduncular
flower-stalks.

pedunculatus, -a,-um (pe-dunk-yew-LAY-tus) Borne on a peduncle; pedunculate.

Pelatantheria (pell-at-an-THEER-ee-a) There are five epiphytic species in this genus

native from Southern China south to Indonesia. Ridley named the genus in 1896,
using the Greek words "approaching or neighbor" and "anther" but the meaning is
not clear.

Pelexia (pell-EKS-ee-a) This genus consists of about 50 terrestrial species from

temperate and tropical South America, being most common in Brazil. Richard
described the genus in 1818, using the Greek word meaning "helmet" to denote the
structure of the sepals.

pellicle (PELL-i-kuhl) An epidermis or surface membrane.

pellucid (pel-LOO-sid) Clear or transparent.

peloria: Cattleya intermedia var. aquini exhibits peloria.

peloria (pe-LOR-ee-a) Abnormal regularity of structure occurring in flowers normally
irregular; generally applied to orchids where the petals have lip characters or colors.
Also when lips take on petal characteristics.

peltatus, -a, -um (pel-TAY-tus) Shield-shaped; peltate.

pendulus, -a, -um (PEN-dew-luss) Hanging or drooping; pendulous.

pennatus, -a, -um (pen-AY-tus) Feathered.

pentadactylus, -a, -um (pen-tah-DAK-til-us) Five-fingered; pentadactyl;
pentadactylate.

pentamerous (pen-TAM-er-us) Consisting of or divided into five parts.

pentaploid (PEN-ta-ployd) Having five sets of chromosomes (5N).

pentas (pen-tus) Greek prefix meaning five.

perbellus, -a, -um (per-BELL-us) Very beautiful.

percussus, -a, -um (per-KUSS-us) Perforated, or appearing so.

perennial (per-ENN-ee-al) Having a life cycle lasting more than two years.

perfect (PER-fekt) Said of flowers that have both the staminate (male) and pistillate
(female) parts.

perfoliate (per-FOLL-ee-ayt) Said of stems that pass through a leaf.

pergameneous (per-gah-MEN-ee-us) Having the texture of parchment.

peri- (PARE-ee) A prefix derived from the Greek, signifying "around," "about,"
"beyond" in scientific terms.

perianth (PARE-ee-anth) The floral envelope considered as a whole, consisting of

the calyx (sepals) and corolla (petals), whatever their form.

pericarp (PARE-ee-karp) The outer ovary wall.

peripheral (puh-RIF-er-uhl) Near the edge or margin

Peristeria (per-is-TER-ee-ah) A small genus of 15 species of epiphytic

orchids from Panama and northern South America. Related to Lycomormium, it was
described by Hooker in 1831, the name meaning "little dove" from the resemblance
of the column and lip to a dove. Peristeria elata, the national flower of Panama, is
popularly called the "dove orchid."
perlite (purr-LITE) A lightweight, heat-expanded phosphate rock used to add
aeration to potting media.

persistent (puhr-siss-tent) Remaining for a long time, as leaves or flowers on the

plant.

pertusus, -a, -um (per-TEW-sus) Perforated; having an aperture.

peruvianus, -a, -um (per-ROO-vee-ay-nus) Native of Peru; Peruvian.

Pescatorea (pess-ka-TOR-ee-ah) A small genus of 16 species of pseudobulbless

epiphytic orchids distributed from Costa Rica to Ecuador. It is related to Bollea and
Huntleya. Described in 1852 by Reichenbach, it was dedicated to M. Pescatore, a
French orchid enthusiast.

pesticide (PESS-ti-cyde) General term for any chemical used to kill or control pests
(e.g., fungicide, insecticide, herbicide)

petal (PET-al) One of the segments of the corolla of a flower; in orchids, one of the
three petals is usually modified into a lip or labellum.

petaloid (PET-a-loyd) Resembling a petal.

Peterson, Richard (1940—1984) Former Editor of the American Orchid Society

Bulletin (1973—1984), credited with changing the journal to an all-color publication,
and a former Executive Director of the Society (1977—1984)

petiolatus, -a, -um (pet-ee-oh-LAY-tus) Having a petiole; petiolate.

petiole (PET-ee-ohl) The stalk by which a leaf is attached to a stem.

Pfitzer, Ernst Hugo Heinrich (1846—1906) German orchidologist, Professor of

Botany and Director of the Botanical Garden at the University of Heidelberg, he
contributed much to modern phylogeny of the orchids, including the orchid family in
Engler and Prantl's Die Naturlichen Pflanzenfamilien and the monograph of the
Cypripedium tribe in Das Pflanzenreich.
pH (PEE-ACHE) The chemical symbol representing the negative log of the hydrogen
ion concentration as an indicator of acidity of a solution, pH 7.0 being neutral, acidity
under 7.0 and alkalinity over 7.0.

Phaius (FAY-us) A genus of 45 species of terrestrial orchids widely

distributed in Indo-Malaysia and China from India to New Guinea, related to
Calanthe and Spathoglottis, it was described by Loureiro in 1790, the name referring
to the swarthy colors of the flowers.

Phalaenopsis (fail-eh-NOP-siss) A genus of 50 species of showy epiphytic

orchids from the Asiatic tropics, related to Doritis and Sarcochilus, it was founded by
Blume in 1825, the name referring to the mothlike appearance of the flower.

phenogam, phenerogam (FEE-noh-gam) (FEE-ner-oh-gam) Flowering plants;

seed-bearing plants (as distinguished from spore-bearing, or cryptogams)

phenotype (FEE-noh-type) The extrnal expression of a genotype.

philippinensis (fill-ip-pin-EN-sis) Native of the Philippines; Philippine.

phloem (FLOH-em) The food conducting tissue within the vascular system of the
plant.

phoenicius, -a, -um (fee-NISH-us) Purple-red.

Pholidota (fol-i-DOH-tah) A medium-sized genus of pseudobulbous epiphytes

from India and southern China to Australia, related to Dendrochilum and Coelogyne,
it was established in 1825 by Lindley, the name arising from the presence of scaly
bracts on the inflorescence, hence the common name of "rattlesnake orchid."

photoperiodism (foh-toh-PEER-ee-oh-dizm) The response of a plant to the daily

duration of daylight, correlated to seasonal changes.

photosynthesis (foh-toh-SIN-the-siss) The formation of carbohydrates, in

constructive metabolism, from water and the carbon dioxide of the air in the
chlorophyll-containing tissues of plants exposed to light.
Phragmipedium (frag-mi-PEE-dee-um) A small genus of 16 species of lady's-
slipper orchids distributed from Mexico to Peru, and established by Rolfe in 1896;
related to Cypripedium, plants of this genus were incorrectly called Selenipedium in
cultivation.

Phreatia (FREET-ee-a) This widespread genus of about 150 epiphytic species

ranges from India east to the Pacific Islands and south to Australia. Lindley
described the genus in 1830, deriving the generic name from the Greek word
meaning "well" to denote the well-like mentum formed by the sepals and lip.

phyllodium ( phyllodia) (FILL-oh-dee-um, FILL-oh-dee-a) A dilated petiole that

resembles a leaf.

phyllotaxy (FILL-oh-tak-see) The arrangement of leaves on the stem.

phylogenetic (fye-loh-je-NET-ik) Pertaining to the evolutionary history of a type or

group of organisms; the evolutionary system of a type or group of organisms.

phylogeny (fye-LOJ-en-ee) Evolutionary history of a group of organisms.

phyllum (FILL-um) In compound words meaning leaf, as in aphyllum meaning

"without leaves."

phylum (FYE-lum) A primary division of the animal or vegetable kingdom.

Phymatidium (fye-mah-TID-ee-um) The dozen or so epiphytic species in this genus

come from South America. Lindley established the genus in 1833, using the
diminutive of the Greek word for "growth" to denote the small size of these plants.

phymatochilus, -a, -um (fye-mat-oh-KYE-lus) Having a swelling on the lip.

Physosiphon (fye-so-SIGH-fon) A genus of about six species of tufted epiphytic

orchids from the American Tropics. Related to Pleurothallis and frequently
considered a synonym, it was founded by Lindley in 1836, the name referring to the
tubelike base of the connate sepals.

phytology (fye-TOL-oh-jee) The study of plants; particularly of the kinds or species;

botany.
phytotoxicity (fye-toh-tok-SISS-i-tee) Poisonousness to plants.

picturatus, -a, -um (pik-tew-RAY-tus) Variegated.

picta: The flowers of Maxillaria picta have a painted

appearance.
pictus, -a, -um (PIK-tus) Painted.

pileatus, -a, -um (pil-ee-AY-tus) Furnished with a cap.

pilosus, -a, -um (pye-LOH-sus) Covered with long soft hairs; pilose.

pinnatus, -a, -um (pin-NAY-tus) Featherlike, having leaflets arranged on each side of
a common stalk; pinnate.

pisiform (PYE-sih-form) Pea shaped

pistil (PISS-til) The seed-bearing organ of the flower, consisting of the ovary, stigma
and, when present, style.

pistillate (PISS-til-layt) Having pistils and no stamens; female.

pitted (pih-TED) Marked with small depressions or pits.

placatus, -a, -um (pla-KAY-tus) Quiet; calm; placid.

placenta (pla-SEN-ta) That part or place in the ovary where ovules are attached.
plaited (PLA-ted) Folded lengthwise, as a closed fan; pleated; plicate.

planus, -a,-um (PLAY-nus) Flat; plane.

plastid (PLAS-tid) A class of cellular organelles that contains either pigments

(chloroplast, chromoplast) or starch (amyloplast)

Platanthera (plah-TAN-ther-ah) A genus of 40 species of North Temperate orchids

formerly included in a broadly defined Habenaria, commonly known as the fringed
orchids. Louis-Claude-Marie Richard founded the genus in 1818, deriving the
generic name from two Greek words meaning "broad" and "anther," a reference to
the broad anthers found in this genus.

Platystele (plat-ee-STEE-lee) There are some six epiphytic species in this

genus distributed in Central and South America. Schlechter described the genus in
1910, deriving the generic name from two Greek words meaning "broad" and
"column" to denote the short column.

plaque (plack) A vertical growing substrate of cork, tree fern, wood or other material.
(See slab)

platy- (PLAT-ee) In Greek combinations, signifying "broad," "wide" or "flat."

Pleione (plye-OH-nee) A genus of 15 species of diminutive pseudobulbous

orchids from the Himalayas and Southeast Asia. Related to Coelogyne, it was
established in 1825 by D. Don, who dedicated it to Pleione, mother of the Pleiades in
Greek mythology.

plenus, -a, -um (PLEE-nus) Double or full.

plesiomorphy (PLEE-zee-oh-more-fee) A cladistic term referring to an ancestral

character state.

Pleurothallis (plur-oh-THAL-liss) A genus of 1,120 species of chiefly epiphytic

pseudobulbous orchids from the American tropics. Related to Masdevallia and Stelis,
it was established in 1813 by Robert Brown, the name referring to the riblike leaf
stalks found in most species.
plicatilis, -e (plye-kayt-EYE-liss) Folded; plicate.

plicatus, -a, -um (plye-KAY-tus) Folded like a fan, or pleated; plicate.

Plocoglottis (plo-ko-GLOTT-iss) The 40 terrestrial species in this genus range from

the Andaman Islands east to Indochina and south to New Guinea. Blume described
the genus in 1825, deriving the generic name from two Greek words meaning
"binding together" and "tongue," a reference to the attachment of the lip to the
column.

ploidy, or —ploidy (PLOY-dee) The number of sets of chromosomes in a cell.

plumosus, -a, -um (ploo-MOH-sus) Feathery; featherlike; plumose.

pod (pod) Horticultural (but botanically incorrect) term for the seed capsule of an
orchid.

Pogonia (poh-GOH-nee-ah) A genus of two terrestrial species widely distributed in

the North Temperate Zone in both hemispheres, it was founded by Jussieu in 1789,
the name referring to the bearded crest on the lip of most species.

pollen (POL-len) The fertilizing grains contained in the anther.

pollinarium (pol-li-NAIR-ee-um) The inclusive term for the pollination unit of most
orchids, comprising pollinia and caudicles, viscidium, or viscidium and stipe.

pollination (pol-li-NAY-shun) The application of pollen to the receptive surface of the

stigma.

pollination biology (pol-li-NAY-shun bye-ol-OH-gee) The study of the interaction

between floral morphology and pollinator behavior.
 pollinia: Orchid pollinia stuck to the back of a bee.
pollinia (sing. pollinium) (pol-LIN-ee-a) The masses of waxy pollen or of coherent
pollen grains found in the anthers of most orchids.

Podangis (poe-DAN-gis) A monotypic epiphytic genus from Central and Western

Africa. Schlechter identified the genus in 1918, using two Greek words meaning
"foot" and "vessel" to describe the footlike spur on the lip.

polliniferous (pol-li-ni-FER-us) Having pollen.

poly-(POL-ee) In Greek combinations, signifying "numerous" or "many."

polyanthus, -a, -um (pol-ee-AN-thus) Many-flowered.

polybulbon (pol-ee-BUL-bon) Having many bulbs.

Polycycnis (pol-ee-SIK-niss) A genus of 16 species of epiphytic orchids

distributed from Costa Rica to Peru and related to Gongora. It was described by
Reichenbach in 1855, the name literally meaning "many swan," in reference to the
fancied resemblance of the many flowers to swans.

polyethylene (pol-ee-ETH-i-leen) A nearly transparent plastic which, in sheet form,

is used as a temporary greenhouse covering or as inside insulation.

polyembryony (pol-ee-em-BREE-on-nee) Having more than one embryo in an

ovule.

polygamous (pol-IG-ah-mus) Having unisexual and hermaphrodite flowers on the

same or on different plants of the same species.
polymin (POL-e-min) A term applied to hybrids between polyploid and miniature
Cymbidium.

polymorphic (pol-ee-MOR-fik) Having or assuming several distinct forms.

polyphyletic (pol-ee-FIH-let-ik) An artificial taxon in classification that has two or

more ancestral groups.

polyploid (POL-ee-ployd) Having more than two chromosome sets in each somatic
cell, or an organism with this condition.

Polyradicion (pol-ee-rah-DIS-ee-on) A genus of five species of leafless epiphytic

orchids found in the tropics and subtropics of South Florida and the Caribbean area,
it is related to Dendrophylax and Campylocentrum; it was described by Pfitzer as
Polyrrhiza in 1889, the name referring to the many conspicuous roots. In 2002, P.M.
Brown moved these species into the genus Dendrophylax.

Polystachya: Polystachya concreta is a common

lowland orchid of the American tropics.
Polystachya (pol-ee-STAK-ee-a) A large genus of 150 epiphytic, lithophytic or
occasionally terrestrial species that are basically African, with several species in
tropical America and Madagascar. Hooker founded the genus in 1625, deriving the
generic name from two Greek words meaning "many" and "ear of grain or spike" to
denote the inflorescences in some species.

Ponera (poe-NER-a) There are seven epiphytic or lithophytic species in this genus
ranging from Mexico to Central America, with one species found as far south as
Ecuador. Lindley founded the genus in 1831, deriving the generic name from the
Greek word "miserable" probably to denote the small habit and tiny flowers.

Ponerorchis (poe-ner-OR-kiss) This genus containing approximately 10 terrestrial

species comes from Japan and Taiwan. H.G. Reichenbach described the genus in
1852, deriving the generic name from the Greek words meaning "miserable" and
"orchid" to denote the small size of these orchids.

Ponthieva (pon-THEE-vah) A genus of 53 species of terrestrial American orchids

related to Cranichis and distributed from the southern United States to Chile.
Described in 1813 by Robert Brown, the name commemorates the French West
Indian merchant Mr. Henri de Ponthieu, who collected plants in the Caribbean area
and sent them to Sir Joseph Banks in 1778.

population (pop-yu-LAY-shun) The assemblage of progeny from a single mating or

from a series of similar matings, particularly in the wild.

porosus, -a, -um (por-OH-sus) With small holes, pores or perforations; porose.

Porphyroglottis (por-feer-oh-GLOTT-is) A monotypic epiphytic genus native to

Borneo and the lower Malay Peninsula. Ridley described the genus in 1896, deriving
the generic name from two Greek words meaning "purple" and "tongue" to denote
the lip of these flowers.

porrect (por-REKT) Directed outward and forward.

Porroglossum (por-roe-GLOSS-um) The 27 epiphytic or lithophytic species of

this genus come from South America, ranging from Ecuador and Peru northward.
Schlechter identified the genus in 1920, coining the generic name from two Greek
words meaning "forward" and "tongue" to indicate the separation of the column from
the lip.

posterior (poss-TEER-ee-or) Next or toward the main axis; the reverse of anterior.

pot (pot) A container, usually cylindrical and tapered, made of baked clay, plastic or
other material, in which orchid plants are grown; to plant an orchid in such a
container.
 potshard: Broken terra cotta potshard.
potshard (POT-shard) A piece or fragment of a broken earthen pot.

Potinara (poh-ti-NAR-ah) A hybrid genus, created in 1922, that was derived from
Brassavola, Cattleya, Laelia and Sophronitis.

potting (pot-ing) The act of placing an orchid plant in a container and securing it in a
medium for support and growth.

praecox (PREE-koks) Early blooming; very early; precocious.

praemorsus, -a, -um (pree-MOR-sus) Jagged, as if bitten off at the end.

praestans (PREE-stanz) Standing in front; excelling; distinguished.

prasinus, -a, -um (pray-SYE-nus) Grass-green.

precocious (pre-KOE-shus) Developing very early.

Prescottia (press-KOT-ee-ah) A genus of 35 species of terrestrial orchids distributed

from Florida to Peru. It is related to Cranichis and was described in 1824 by Lindley
in honor of the English botanist John D. Prescott, who collected plants in Russia and
northern Asia.

prickle (PRIH-kl) A sharp outgrowth from the epidermis

primary (pri-MER-ee) The first part to develop.

primordium (pri-MOR-dee-um) The first recognizable histologically undifferentiated

stage in the development of an organ.

primulinus, -a, -um (prim-yew-LYE-nus) Resembling a primrose.

princeps (PRIN-seps) Distinguished.

prismatocarpus, -a, -um (priz-mat-oh-KAR-pus) Having prism-shaped seed pods with

three flat sides and three sharp angles.

proboscideus, -a, -um (proh-bos-SID-ee-us) Snout-like.

proboscis (proh-BAW-siss) The elongate feeding organ of an insect, formed of the

mouth parts.

process (PRO-sess) An extension of any surface or part beyond the main outline.
procumbens (pro-KUM-benz) Prostrate; lying flat along the ground.

productus, -a,-um (proh-DUK-tus) Lengthened; extended or prolonged; produced.

proliferation (pro-lih-fer-AY-shun) Producing offshoots; growing by multiple division.

profusus, -a, -um (proh-FEW-sus) Abundant; profuse.

Promenaea (pro-men-EE-ah) A genus of 14 species of dwarf epiphytic

orchids from Brazil and neighboring areas, related to Zygopetalum. It was described
by Lindley in 1843, the name derived from Promeneia, a priestess at Dodona.

prophyllum (pro-FILL-um) The small bract at the base of a flower.

prostrate (PROS-trayt) Lying flat on the ground.

postular (poss-tewl-ar) Having blisterlike projections

protocorm (PROH-toh-korm) The first growth, a tuberlike body produced by a

germinating orchid seed prior to the production of leaves, roots, etc.

protologue (PRO-toh-log) The information presented at the place and time of

publication of a new taxon.
proximal (PROK-sim-al) The part nearest the axis.

pruinosus, -a,-um (prew-in-OH-sus) Covered with a whitish, frostlike bloom;

excessively glaucous; pruinose.

pseudo- (SOO-doh) A Greek prefix meaning false.

pseudobulb (SOO-doh-bulb) A thickened portion of a stem, resembling a bulb but

not being a true bulb, which is a modified stem composed of bulb scales.

pseudobulbous (SOO-doh-BUL-bus) Having or producing pseudobulbs.

pseudobulbless (SOO-doh-BULB-less) The condition of not having a noticeable

pseudobulb.

pseudocopulation (SOO-doh-kop-yu-LAY-shun) A form of pollination in orchids

wherein the flower mimics a female insect fooling the male enough to cause him to
pollinate the flower.

Psychilis (sye-KYE-liss) The 15 epiphytic or lithophytic species of this genus are

found in the West Indies. The genus was originally described by Rafinesque in 1838
and largely ignored until Sauleda resurrected it in 1988. The generic name was
derived from two Greek words meaning "butterfly" and "lip" to denote the colorful lip.

Psychopsiella (sye-kop-SEE-ell-a) A monotypic epiphytic genus from Brazil and

Venezuela. Lueck and Braem founded the genus in 1982, and used the diminutive
form of Psychopsis, an allied group.

Psychopsis (sye-KOP-sis) A Neotropical genus of four species commonly

called butterfly orchids. Previously maintained in Oncidium, they are remarkable for
their dimorphic sepals and striking colors.

psycodes (sye-KOH-deez) Fragrant.

Psygmorchis (sig-MOR-kiss) A small genus of four or five twig epiphytes ranging

from Central America south to Brazil and Bolivia. Dodson and Dressler founded the
genus in 1972, deriving the generic name from two Greek words meaning "fan" and
"orchid" to describe the plants' vegetative characteristics.

pterocarpus, -a, -um (tare-oh-KAR-pus) Having a winged fruit.

Pterostylis (tare-oh-STYE-liss) A genus of more than 100 species of

terrestrial orchids from Australia, New Zealand, New Caledonia and New Guinea, it
was described in 1810 by Robert Brown, who derived the name from the prominently
winged column of the flower found in most species.

puberulent (pew-BEH-ru-lent) Finely pubescent.

pubescens (pew-BESS-enz) Downy; covered with fine short hair; pubescent.

pudicus, -a, -um (PEW-dik-us) Modest; bashful.

pugioniformis, -e (pew-ji-on-i-FORM-is) Dagger shaped.

pulchellus, -a, -um (pul-KEL-lus) Fair, pretty.

pulcher, pulchra, pulchrum (PUL-ker) Beautiful, lovely.

pullus, -a, -um (PULL-us) Dark colored.

pulvinatus, -a,-um (pull-vin-AY-tus) Formed like or resembling a cushion.

pumilus, -a, -um (PEW-mill-us) Dwarf, or low growing.

punctatus, -a, -um (punc-TAY-tus) Spotted; marked with dots, depressions or

translucent glands; punctate.

pungent (pun-jent) Acid to the taste.

purpurascens (per-per-ASS-enz) Becoming or turning purple; purplish.

purpuratus, -a, -um (per-per-AY-tus) Marked with purple so as to have a certain regal
quality.

purpureus, -a, -um (per-PER-ee-us) Purple.

purus, -a, -um (PUR-us) Spotless; of one color.

pusilla: Erycina pusilla is a very small plant.

pusillus, -a, -um (pew-SILL-us) Very small.

pygmaeus, -a, -um (pig-MEE-us) Very small; pygmy.

pyramidalis, -e (peer-a-mid-DAY-liss) Pyramid shaped; pyramidal.

pyriformis, -e (peer-i-FOR-miss) Pear shaped; pyriform.

pyxidate (piks-UH-dayt) Having a lid.

raceme: Spathoglottis plicata illustrating a typical

raceme.
race (reys) A group of individuals within a species, all of which possess one or more
distinguishing characteristics.

raceme (ray-SEEM) A simple inflorescence of stalked flowers on a common, more

or less elongated axis.

racemosus, -a, -um (ras-see-MOH-sus) With flowers borne in racemes, resembling a

raceme; racemose.

rachis (RAY-kiss) The axis of an inflorescence.

radians (RAY-di-anz) Radiating outward.

radiant (Ray-dee-nt) Coming from a central point.

radiatus, -a, -um (ray-dee-AY-tus) Spreading out from a common center; with rays;
radiate.

radical (RAD-i-kul) Of or arising from the root or base of the stem.

radicans: Epidendrum radicans has rooting stems.

radicans (RAD-ik-anz) Having rooting stems.

radicle (RAD-i-kul) The embryonic plant root.

radix (RAY-diks) A root.

raft (rahft) A large, flat basket made of interlocking pieces of wood.

rameal (RAY-mee-al) Belong to a branch.

ramifaction (rahm-ih-FIH-kay-shun) Branching.

ramicaul (RAM-i-kall) A morphologic term for the so-called "secondary stem" of the
Pleurothallidinae.

ramosus, -a, -um (ram-OH-sus) Branched; ramose.

ramulose (RAM-yuh-lohs) Having many branches.

Rangaeris (ran-gah-ER-is) The six species in this genus are widespread throughout
tropical Africa. Summerhayes described the genus in 1936, naming it Rangaeris, an
anagram of Aerangis, to which it is related.

raniferus, -a, -um (ran-NI-fer-us) With a frog-like callus .

ranks (rangks) Rows, as in the arrangement of flowers in an inflorescence.

raphe (RAYF-a) A ridge.

raphides (RAYF-ids) Needlelike crystals, usually of calcium oxalate, which occur in

the cells of many plants.

rarus, -a, -um (RARE-us) Rare; uncommon.

raucus, -a, -um (RAW-kus) Hoarse; raw; raucous.

receptacle (re-SEP-ta-kul) The summit of the flower stalk bearing the floral organs.

recessive (ree-SESS-iv) Said of an allele that is not expressed when paired with a
dominant allele; also, the phenotypic character thereof.

reciprocal cross (ree-SIP-ro-cul kraws) A repeat of a cross in which the original

roles of the pollen and seed parents are reversed.

reclinatus, -a, -um (rek-lin-AY-tus) Bent backward; reclining; reclinate.

recondite (REK-on-dyet) Concealed; difficult to make out; not easily recognized.

 rectum: Cymbidium rectum has an
upright inflorescence.
rectus, -a, -um (REK-tus) Upright; erect.

recurvus, -a, -um (ree-KER-vus) Bent backward, recurved.

reflasking (ree-flask-ing) Transplanting small seedlings from one flask into a flask of
fresh medium to permit greater growth before deflasking the seedlings into
community pots or thumb pots.

reflexus, -a, -um (ree-FLEK-sus) Abruptly bent backward or downward; reflexed.

refulgens (ree-FUL-jenz) Shining brightly.

regalis, -e (ree-GAY-liss) Of outstanding merit; regal.

reginae (re-JYE-nee) Of the queen; queenly.

registrant (rej-ih-STRANT) The person or firm in whose name an application is

made for the registration of an orchid hybrid.

registrar (rej-ih-STRAR) The official of the Royal Horticultural Society (London)

International Registration Authority of the responsible for the processing of
applications to register orchid hybrids.

registration (rej-is-STRAY-shun) The process and procedures for the recording of

the name and parentage of a new orchid hybrid under the jurisdiction of the
International Registration Authority.
regius, -a,-um (REE-jee-us) Royal; regal.

regular (REG-yuh-ler) Uniform or symmetrical in shape or structure.

regulator gene (reg-yuh-LAY-tore jeen) Any gene that controls the expression of
another gene.

Reichenbach: Heinrich Gustav Reichenbach.

Reichenbach, Heinrich Gustav (1824—1889) An eminent German orchidologist born
in Dresden. His activity was chiefly that of describing new species, especially new
horticultural introductions, and monographing certain genera. His papers were
scattered in numerous journals, especially in The Gardener's Chronicle; his most
important single work was Xenia Orchidacea (1854—1900), a three-volume
illustrated work. He was the son (filius in Latin) of an equally eminent botanist and
thus he is also known as the younger Reichenbach or Reichb.f.

remotus, -a, -um (ree-MOH-tus) Scattered; not close together; remote.

Renanthera (ren-ANN-ther-ah) A genus of 17 species of epiphytic and

hemiepiphytic orchids distributed from southeast Asia through Malaysia and the
Philippines, related to Vanda and Arachnis. Established in 1790 by Loureiro, the
name alludes to the kidney-shaped pollinia of the flowers.

Renantherella (ren-ANN-ther-ell-a) At least one epiphytic species is known in this

genus native to peninsular Thailand and Malaya south to Borneo. Ridley established
the genus in 1896, using the diminutive form of Renanthera, due to their similarity.
 reniform: Cuitlauzina pendula has a reniform lip.
reniform Kidney-shaped

resiniferous Resin producing.

repandens (ree-PAN-denz) With a gently wavy or fluted margin; undulate; repand.

repens (REE-penz) Creeping; prostrate and rooting at the nodes; repent.

replicatus, -a, -um (rep-li-KAY-tus) Doubled back; folded; replicate.

respiration (res-per-AY-shun) The processes used by organisms to produce

metabolically usable energy from oxidative breakdown of food.

Restrepia (re-STREP-ee-a) There are about 30 miniature epiphytic species in

this genus ranging from Mexico south to northern Argentina. Humboldt, Bonpland
and Kunth described the genus in 1815, naming it in honor of Sr. Jos— E. Restrepo,
who worked on the geography of the Andes.

Restrepiella (re-STREP-ee-ell-a) A monotypic epiphytic genus from tropical

Central America. Garay and Dunsterville described the genus in 1966, using the
diminutive form of Restrepia due to their likeness.
 resupinate: Many orchids
including Cattleya labiata have resupinate flowers.
resupinate (re-SOO-pin-ayt) With the lip on the lower side of the flower in respect to
the rachis; used to refer to flowers with the lip lowermost regardless of orientation.

reticulatus, -a, -um (re-tik-yew-LAY-tus) In the form of a network; reticulate.

reticulum (re-TIK-yuh-lum) A network of fibers.

retinaculum (ret-in-AK-yuh-lum) In Orchidaceae, the gland where one or more

pollinia are attached.

retrorse (re-TRORSS) Directed back or downward.

retusus, -a, -um (re-TEW-sus) Rounded at the end, but with a broad and shallow
notch in the center; retuse.

reversion (ree-VER-zhuhn) A change backward to an earlier condition.

reversus, -a, -um (ree-VER-sus) Turned around; reversed.

revolutus, -a,-um (rev-oh-LEW-tus) Rolled backward from the margin or apex;

revolute.

rhachis (RAY-kiss) See rachis.

rhizomatose (RYE-zoh-mah-tose) Having the characteristics of a rhizome.

 rhizome: A cattleya hybrid showing the rhizome.
rhizome (RYE-zohm) A root-bearing stem, prostrate on or under the ground, the
apex of which progressively sends up leafy shoots.

rhizome clip (RYE-zohm klip) A bent piece of heavy wire that fastens to the side of
a pot, used to stabilize a newly potted orchid that bears a rhizome.

rhizome clip: Rhizome clips are used to keep a newly

potted orchid stable.
rhombic (ROM-bik) Top-shaped; an equilateral figure having oblique angles.

rhomboid (ROM-boyd) Having the shape of a rhombus, i.e., a parallelogram with

oblique angles and equal sides.

Rhyncholaelia (rink-oh-LAY-lee-ah) There are two epiphytic species in this

genus native to Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras and Belize. Schlechter established
the genus in 1918, deriving the generic name from two Greek words meaning
"snout" and "laelia." in reference to the very long ovaries characteristic of the the two
species, R. digbyana and R. glauca.

RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) Horticultural society based in London; responsible

for registering orchid hybrids.

Rhynchocentrum (rink-oh-SEN-trum) A hybrid genus

between Ascocentrum and Rhynchostylis created in 1963.

Rhynchostylis (rink-oh-STYE-liss) A genus of three species of epiphytic

orchids, widely distributed from India and Ceylon through Burma, Indo-China and
Malaysia to the Philippines, related to Aerides and Vanda. It was first described by
Blume in 1825, the name alluding to the beaked column of the type species.

rib (rib) In a leaf or similar organ, the primary vein; also any prominent vein or nerve.

ribonucleic acid (RNA) (RYE-bow-new-CLAY-ik as-id) Nucleic acid formed on a

DNA template and involved in directing protein synthesis within the cell.

Richard, Achille (1794—1852) French botanist, son of L.C. Richard, significant for
his several works on orchids including his important contribution to Mexican
orchidology with H.G. Galeotti.

Richard, Louis Claude Marie (1754—1821) French botanist whose work on

European orchids developed an exact and critical terminology of the parts of the
orchid plant, particularly the flowers.

Ridley, Henry Nicholas (1855—1956) Versatile English botanist who began his
career as an assistant in the British Museum (Natural History) and subsequently
became director of the Botanic Garden in Singapore; besides monographic
treatments of the genus Liparis, Microstylis, Malaxis and Bromheadia, his works on
orchids include those of Madagascar, Borneo and Malaya.

rigidus, -a, -um (RIJ-id-us) Stiff; unbending; rigid.

rimosus, -a, -um (ri-MOH-sus) With cracks or chinks; cracked; fissured; rimose.
 ringens: Maxillaria ringens has an open throat.
ringens (RIN-jenz) Gaping; said of labiate flowers with an open throat or mouth.

riparian (RYE-pare-ee-en) Said of plants growing near a stream or river.

rivalis, -e (ri-VAY-liss) Growing along streams.

Rodricidium (rahd-ri-SID-ee-um) A hybrid genus between Oncidium and Rodriguezia

created in 1957.

Rodriguezia (rahd-ri-GUESS-ee-ah) A genus of 40 species of epiphytic orchids in

South America, extending into Central America and the Caribbean. Related
to Comparettia and Ionopsis, it was established in 1794 by Ruiz and Pavon,
commemorating the 18th-century Spanish botanist and apothecary, Don Manuel
Rodriguez.

Rodrigueziella (rahd-ri-GUESS-ee-ell-a) The five epiphytic species in this genus are

native to Brazil. Kuntze described the genus in 1891, dedicating it to Dr. Jo—o
Barbosa Rodrigues, an avid orchidologist.

Roezl, Benedict (1823—1885) Famous Czech orchid collector who is

commemorated in numerous South American orchids such as Miltoniopsis roezlii.

Rogers, Richard Sanders (1862—1942) Early Australian orchidologist.

Rolfe, Robert Allen (1855—1921) One of the greatest of modern English

orchidologists. Essentially self-taught, he began as a gardener at the Royal Botanic
Gardens, Kew, and became an assistant in the Kew Herbarium, where he served for
40 years. He founded and for 28 years edited The Orchid Review, monographed the
orchids for the Flora of Tropical Africa, co-authored the Orchid Stud Book, and
contributed numerous articles on orchids in leading periodicals.

roller shades (ROH-ler sheyds) A curtain, made of slats, evenly spaced, or other
shade material that can by means of ropes or cords be rolled and unrolled over the
outside or inside of a greenhouse roof (and sometimes sides) to regulate the amount
of sunlight admitted.

root (root) The underground portion of a plant. It supports the plant and supplies
water and nutrients to the upper portion

rootstock (root-stawk) (See rhizome)

rosette (roh-ZET) A radiating or circular cluster of leaves or other organs.

roseus, -a, -um (ROH-zee-us) Rose-colored; delicate pink; rosy.

Rossioglossum: Rossioglossum williamsianum is a

colorful member of the genus.

Rossioglossum (ross-ee-oh-GLOSS-um) There are six epiphytic species in

this Central American genus ranging from Mexico south to Panama. Schlechter
described the genus in 1916, naming it in honor of John Ross, who collected
Mexican orchids in the 1830s.

rostellum (ros-TELL-um) A sometimes beaklike extension of the stigma, a gland

that produces a viscous substance used in pollination. Also separates the female
portion from the male portion of the flower, preventing self-pollination.

rostratus, -a, -um (ros-TRAY-tus) Having a projection like the beak of a bird; beaked;
rostrate.
rosula (ross-YUH-la) A rosette.

rosulate (ross-YUH-layt) In the form of a rosette.

rotatus, -a, -um (roh-TAY-tus) Wheel-shaped; rotate.

rotundatus, -a, -um (roh-tund-AY-tus) Nearly circular; rounded; rotund.

rotundifolius, -a, -um (roh-tun-di-FOH-li-us) With round or rounded leaves.

Roxburgh, William (1751—1815) English botanist and illustrator, he described many

new species of orchids and other plants of India, where he served as superintendent
of the Royal Botanical Garden at Calcutta from 1793 to 1814.

rubellus, -a, -um (roo-BEL-lus) Reddish-colored.

ruber, rubra, rubrum (ROO-ber) Red. In compound words, rubri-.

rubescens (roo-BESS-enz) Rosy red, or suffused with rose; blushing; reddish-

colored.

rubro-oculatus, a, -um (roo-broh-ok-yew-LAY-tus) Red-eyed.

rubro-purpureus, -a, -um (roo-broh-purr-PURR-ee-us) Reddish purple.

rubiginosus, -a, -um (roo-bij-in-OH-sus) Rusty; rust-colored; rubiginous.

ruderal (ROO-der-uhl) Growing in waste spaces.

rudimentary (roo-dih-MEN-tah-ree) Arrested in an early stage of development.

Rudolfiella (roo-DOLF-ee-ell-a) The six epiphytic species in this genus are native to
tropical South America and Panama. Hoehne identified the genus in 1944, naming it
in honor of Dr. Rudolf Schlechter, an avid orchidologist.

rufescens (roo-FESS-enz) Reddish brown.

 rupicolous: Formerly included in the group of orchids
known as "rupicolous laelias", Cattleya bradei grows on rocks.
rugosus, -a, -um (roo-GOH-sus) Roughened by wrinkles; rugose.

rugulosus, -a, -um (roo-gew-LOW-sus) Minutely rugose; finely wrinkled; rugulose.

ruminate (ROO-muh-neyt) Appearing as having been chewed.

runcinate (RUN-suh-neyt) Sharply incised, the segments bent backward.

runner (RUH-ner) A slender trailing shoot taking root at the nodes.

rupestris, -e (roo-PESS-triss) Growing in rocky places; rock-loving.

rupicolus, -a, -um (roo-PIK-oh-lus) Growing in cliffs and ledges; rupicolous.

Rupp, Herman Montague Rucker (1872—1956) Australian orchid taxonomist who

elucidated the flora of New South Wales.

rust (ruhst) A fungal disease.

S
sabulose (SAB-yew-lohz) Growing in or pertaining to sandy places.

saccharinus, -a, -um (sak-ka-RYE-nus) Sweet.

saccatus, -a, -um (sak-KAY-tus) Pouch- or bag-shaped; saccate.

Saccolabium (sak-koh-LAY-bee-um) A genus of four small-flowered epiphytic orchid
species of Southeast Asia, related to Vanda and Ascocentrum. Established by
Blume in 1825, the name alludes to the baglike shape of the lip; rarely cultivated, it
has been confused with many vandaceous genera.

sagittatus, -a, -um (saj-it-TAY-tus) Shaped like an arrowhead, with the basal lobes
directed downward.

salinus, -a, -um (sal-LYE-nus) Growing in salty places; saline.

Sander, H.F.C. (1847—1920) Founder of the English orchid firm of Sander, he was
an ardent importer of many new species and fine varieties through his employment
of many famed plant collectors.

sanctus, -a, -um (SANK-tus) Holy.

sanguinea:
Broughtonia sanguinea has blood-
red flowers.
sanguineus,-a, -um (sang-GWIN-ee-us) Blood-colored; blood-red; sanguine.

sanguinolens (sang-gwin-OH-lenz) Approaching blood color.

sanguinolentus, -a, -um (sang-gwin-oh-LEN-tus) Having blood-red spots or veins.

sapidus, -a, -um (SAP-id-us) Pleasant to taste; sapid.

saprophyte (SAP-roh-fite) A plant growing in and deriving most of its nourishment

from decaying organic matter, often apparently lacking in chlorophyll.
saprophytic (sap-roh-FIT-ik) Pertaining to a saprophyte.

sarcanthine (sar-KAN-theen) An adjective referring to any Asiatic monopodial

orchid, more inclusive than the similarly applied "vandaceous."

Sarcochilus (sar-coh-KYL-us) A genus of approximately 20 species of

diminutive epiphytes restricted to Australia and New Caledonia, including the orange
blossom orchid of Australia, Sarcochilus falcatus. Brown founded the genus in 1810,
deriving the generic name from two Greek words meaning "flesh" and "lip" due to the
fleshy lip observed in the type specimen.

sarcodes (sar-KOH-deez) Of fleshlike substance.

Sarcoglottis (sar-ko-GLOTT-is) There are some 50 terrestrial species in this genus

widespread throughout the West Indies, Central and South America. Presl described
the genus in 1827, deriving the generic name from two Greek words meaning "flesh"
and "tongue" to denote the fleshy lips found in these flowers.

sativus, -a, -um (sa-TYE-vus) Cultivated.

Satyrium (sa-TEER-ee-um) There are close to 100 terrestrial species in this African
genus spread throughout tropical and South Africa. Swartz established the genus in
1800, naming it possibly for the Satyri, Greek demigods, or since the word also
means "man orchid" it could denote the Greek belief that the tubers had aphrodisiac
properties.

saxicolus, -a, -um (sax-IK-oh-lus) Growing on rocks; saxicolous.

scaber, scabra, scabrum (SKAY-ber) Rough; scabrous.

scabrous (SKAY-brus) Rough; feeling roughish or gritty to the touch.

scalariform (sklare-IH-form) Having ladder-like markings

scale (skayl) (1) A name given to many kinds of small, modified leaves or bracts. (2)
One of a number of kinds of minute sucking insects which attack the stems and
leaves of orchid and other plants, the adult scales being flattened, disk-like and
immobile.
scalloped (SKAL-lopd) Crenate, with rounded teeth.

scandens (SKAN-denz) Climbing; scandent.

scape (SKAYP) An inflorescence of a long peduncle topped with a single flower, as

in Cypripedium acaule.

Scaphosepalum (skaf-oh-SEE-pa-lum) The 30 epiphytic species in this genus

come from tropical America, ranging from Mexico south to Bolivia. Pfitzer founded
the genus in 1888, deriving the generic name from the Greek word meaning "bowl"
and the Latin word meaning "sepal" to denote the unusual arrangement of the
sepals.

Scaphyglottis:
Scaphyglottis prolifera has mat-
like growth and tiny flowers.
Scaphyglottis (skaf-ee-GLOTT-is) There are 40 epiphytic or lithophytic species in this
genus native to tropical America. Poeppig and Endlicher named the genus in 1835,
deriving the generic name from two Greek words meaning "bowl" and "tongue" to
denote the bowl-shaped lip.

scapiform (SKAY-pih-form) Resembling a scape.

scaposus, -a, -um (skap-OH-sus) Bearing or resembling a scape; scapose; often

used for racemes or spikes borne on a long peduncle.
 scarious:
The dried sheaths covering these
pseudobulbs are scarious.
scariosus, -a,-um (skay-ree-OH-sus) Thin, dry and membranaceous, not green;
shriveled; scarious.

Scelochilus (skell-oh-KYE-luss) Around 25 small epiphytic species in this genus

range from Mexico south to Brazil and Bolivia. Klotzsch established the genus in
1841, deriving the generic name from two Greek words meaning "leg" and "lip,"
possibly to denote the two hornlike projections on the lip.

Schiller, Consul Prominent 19th-century German horticulturist, commemorated by

many showy orchid species such as Cattleya schillerianaand Phalaenopsis
schilleriana.

Schlechter, Friedrich Richard Rudolf (1872—1925) This outstanding German

orchidologist and indefatigable systematic botanist was born in Berlin, began as a
horticulturist, embarked upon significant botanical explorations to Africa and New
Guinea, and collected and described thousands of new orchid species, closing out
his life as curator in the Botanical Museum at Dahlem near Berlin. His system of
orchids, published posthumously in 1926, established the classification of the family
as widely accepted today. His extensive bibliography includes more than 300
papers.

Schlimmia (SHLIM-ee-a) The five epiphytic species in this genus are native to the
northern Andes. Planchon and Jean Linden named the genus in 1852 in honor of
Louis Schlim, a cousin and collector of South American orchids for Linden.

Schoenorchis (schoen-ORE-kiss) The 10 epiphytic species in this genus range from

the Himalayas southeast to New Guinea. Blume described the genus in 1825,
deriving the generic name from two Greek words meaning "reed or rush" and
"orchid" to denote the narrow leaves on these plants.

Schomburgkia (shom-BERG-kee-ah) A former genus of 20 species of

epiphytic orchids from the American tropics and subtropics whose species have
been sunk into Laelia and Myrmecophila. The genus was established in 1838 by
Lindley, who dedicated it to the German botanist Sir Robert Schomburgk. (1804—
1865).

Schweinfurth, Charles (1890—1970) Orchidologist whose career at the Ames Orchid

Herbarium culminated in the four-volume Orchids of Peru. He is commemorated in
many plant names, including the genus Cischweinfia.

scion (SYE-on) A shoot used in grafting; a cutting; a descendant.

sclerenchymatous (skleer-eng-KIM-uh-tuhs) Having cells with thickened and hard

walls.

scobicular (sco-BIK-yew-lar) In fine grains like sawdust.

scorpioid (SKORE-pee-oyd) Coiled in the bud.

scrobiculate (skrow-BIK-yuh-lit) Having shallow depressions.

scrotiformis, -e (skro-ti-FOR-miss) Pouch-shaped; scrotiform.

sculptus, -a, -um (SKULP-tus) Carved; sculpted.

scurfy (SKER-fee) Scaly.

scutellaris, -e (skew-tell-AY-ris) Dish- or shield-shaped.

 Scuticaria:
Scuticaria steelii 'Roman Holiday'
AM-CCM/AOS.

Scuticaria (skoo-ti-KAYR-ee-ah) A genus of seven species of epiphytic

orchids from South America. Related to Maxillaria, it was established by Lindley in
1843, the name referring to the whip-like character of the pendent terete leaves.

sebosus, -a, -um (seb-OH-sus) Full of grease or tallow.

sectile (SEK-til) Cut into small partitions.

section (SEK-shun) A taxonomic subdivision of a genus below the rank of a

subgenus.

secundum:
Dendrobium secundum has
flowers on only one side of
the inflorescence.
secundus, -a, -um (se-KUN-dus) One-sided; borne along one side of an axis;
secund.

Seden, John (1840—1921) Early English orchid grower and hybridist employed by
James Veitch & Sons. His name is commemorated in many of the early hybrids
registered by that firm.

Sedirea (se-DEER-ee-a) A monotypic monopodial epiphytic genus indigenous

to Japan, Korea and the Ryukyu Islands. Garay and Sweet established the genus in
1974, using the anagram of Aerides due to the similarity of the two genera.

seed (seed) The ripened ovule; the propagative part of a plant.

seed pod (seed pod) Horticultural and botanically incorrect term for the fruit or
capsule of an orchid.

seedling (seed-ling) A young orchid plant from the time it produces its first leaves
and roots until the time of its first flowering.

segment (seg-ment) A part of the perianth, as the petal, sepal or lip; any division or
part of a cleft or divided organ.

Seidenfadenia (sye-den-fah-DEEN-ee-a) A monotypic epiphytic genus from

Myanmar and Thailand. Garay established the genus in 1972, naming it in honor of
Dr. G. Seidenfaden, who spent years studying the orchids of Thailand.

selection (see-LEK-shun) The processing of breeding through the choosing of

parents with outstanding characteristics for the type with the aim of improvement.

Selenipedium (se-lee-ni-PEE-dee-um) A genus of four species of Central and South

American terrestrial orchids related to Cypripedium, it was described in 1854 by
Reichenbach, the name referring to Selene, the goddess of the moon in Greek
mythology. Many species of Phragmipedium were previously placed
in Selenipedium.

self-fertilization (self-fer-tih-LYE-zay-shun) The fertilization of an ovule by its own

pollen (opposed to cross-fertilization); selfing.

selfing (self-ing) The pollination of a flower by its own pollen or by pollen from
another flower of the same plant.
self-pollination (self-pol-in-AY-shun) The pollination of a flower by its own pollen,
either through natural means or through the agency of man.

selligerus, -a, -um (sel-LIJ-er-us) Saddle-shaped.

semi- (seh-mye or seh-mee) A prefix meaning half.

semi-alba:
Cattleya Orglade's Paradise 'MGR'
HCC/AOS is a semi-alba orchid.
semi-alba (seh-mee-al-ba) A term applied to a white flower that has a colored lip.

semi-apertus, -a, -um (sem-ee-ah-PER-tus) Half open, alluding to a flower.

semiterete (sem-ee-ter-EET) Applied to hybrid vandas produced by the intergeneric

hybrids between terete-leaved Papilionanthe and strap-leaved Vanda.

senilis, -e (seh-NIL-iss) Of old people, aged.

sepal (SEP-ul or SEE-pul) One of the divisions of the calyx; one of the three parts of
the outer whirl of the perianth.

sepaline (SEEP-a-leen) Belonging to or consisting of the sepals; resembling a

sepal.

sepaloid (SEEP-ah-loyd) Resembling a sepal.

septate (SEP-tayt) Partitioned; divided by partitions.

septicidal (SEP-tih-SYE-dahl) Said of those capsules that dehisce through the

partitions and between the locules.
septum (SEP-tum) A partition.

Serapias (sir-RAP-ee-as) This Mediterranean-region terrestrial orchid genus consists

of about seven species. Linneaus described the genus in 1753, naming it in honor of
the Egyptian god Searpias, possibly because some plants are native to Egypt.

seratinous (ser-at-IH-nuss) Bearing bristles.

sericeus, -a, -um (ser-ISS-ee-us) Silky; covered with silky down; sericeous.

serpens (SER-penz) Creeping; serpent.

serratus, -a, -um (ser-AY-tus) Having sharp teeth pointing forward; serrate.

serrulatus, -a, -um (ser-yew-LAY-tus) Finely serrate; serrulate.

sesquipedale:
Angraecum sesquipedale has a
one-and-a-half nectary.
sesquipedalis, -e (sess-kwee-ped-AY-liss) One-and-a-half feet long.

sessilis, -e (SESS-il-iss) Attached directly by the base; without a stalk; sessile.

seta (SEE-tah) A bristle.

setaceus, -a, -um (se-TAY-see-us) Bristlelike or bristle-shaped; furnished with

bristles; setaceous.

setiformis, -e (set-i-FORM-iss) Bristle-shaped; setiform.

setigerus, -a, -um (set-IJ-er-us) Bearing bristles.

setose (SEE-tohs) Covered with bristles

setulose (set-YUH-lohs) Having very small bristles

sexual propagation (seks-yu-hl pra-pa-GAY-shun) The increasing of a plant

population through the production and growth of seed.

shading (SHAY-ding) The act of reducing the amount of sunlight entering a

greenhouse by means of translucent panels, semi-opaque paint, or opaque screen;
a substance or material used for such purpose.

shaker (SHAY-ker) A mechanical table or rotating wheel used in micropropagation

to break up and encourage the growth of callus tissue.

sheath (sheeth) A protective leaflike growth that envelopes the stem; especially the
flattened covering that protects the developing inflorescence in genera such as
Cattleya.

shoot (shoot) The part of the plant derived from the plumule of the embryo, usually
comprising stem and leaves.

shrub (shrub) A woody plant that remains low and branches from the base.

siculiform (sik-YUH-ih-form) Having the shape of a dagger.

siculiformis, -e (sik-yew-li-FORM-iss) Shaped like a dagger; siculiform.

Sievekingia (siv-KING-ee-a) A genus of 15 species of tropical American

epiphytes, related to Paphinia. It was established by Reichenbach in 1871, the name
commemorating Dr. Sieveking, a burgermeister of Hamburg, Germany.

Sigmatostalix (sig-mat-oh-STAY-liks) A genus of 35 species of tropical American

epiphytic orchids found from Mexico to Bolivia, it is related to Oncidium; described in
1852 by Reichenbach, the name alludes to the sigmoid or s-shaped appearance of
the column and lip.
sigmoid; sigmoidal (SIG-moyd; sig-MOY-dal) Curved in two directions, like the
letter S.

signatus, -a, -um (sig-NAY-tus) Well-marked.

siliceus, -a, -um (si-LISS-ee-us) Growing in sand; siliceous.

silvestris, -e (sil-VES-triss) Growing in woods.

similis, -e (SIM-ill-iss) Similar; like.

simple (SIM-puhl) Not compound; of one piece.

simulans (SIM-yew-lanz) Resembling; simulate.

sinensis, -e (si-NEN-sis) Native of China; Chinese.

sinistrose (SIN-is-trohs) Turned to the left.

sinuatus, -a, -um (sin-yew-AY-tus) Having the outline or the margin strongly wavy;
sinuate.

sinus (SYE-nuss). The cleft or recess between two lobes.

Skinner, George Ure (1804—1867) An outstanding English collector of plants in

Guatemala, he introduced nearly 100 species of orchids into horticulture, many of his
discoveries being illustrated in Bateman's Orchids of Mexico and Guatemala.

slab (slab) A plaque or similar vertical mount for the growing of an epiphytic orchid.

Smith, Johann Jacob (1867—1947) One of the greatest of modern orchidologists, he

was born in Antwerp, Belgium, studied horticulture, and became associated with the
Botanic Garden at Buitenzorg in Java, where he spent 30 years. His outstanding
works, including an eight-volume work on the orchids of Dutch New Guinea, were
orchid floras of Java, Sumatra and Amboina, as well as lllustrations of Malayan
Orchids.

Smitinandia (smi-tin-AND-ee-a) The three epiphytic species in this genus are found
from Southeast Asia to Sulawesi. Holttum described the genus in 1969, naming it in
honor of Tim Smitinand, co-author of the Orchids of Thailand.

smooth (smooth) A surface that has no hairiness, roughness or pubescence.

Sobennikoffia (so-ben-ee-KOF-ee-a) The three species in this genus from

Madagascar may be epiphytic, lithophytic or terrestrial. Schlechter founded the
genus in 1925, naming it in honor of his wife, whose maiden name was Sobennikoff.

sobole (SO-bowl) A shoot, usually originating from the base.

soboliferous (so-buhl-IF-er-us)Having vigorous basal shoots.

Sobralia (so-BRAL-ee-ah) A distinctive genus of 95 species of terrestrial and

lithophytic orchids from Mexico, Central and South America, it is characterized by its
reedlike stems, plicate leaves and Cattleya-like flowers; it was founded in 1794 by
Ruiz and Pavon in honor of the Spanish physician Dr. Francisco Sobral.

socialis, -e (so-see-AY-liss) Forming colonies.

solaris, -e (so-LAY-ris) Growing in sunny places.

Solenidium (sol-en-EED-ee-um) There are possibly two epiphytic species in this

genus from Colombia and Venezuela and Brazil. Lindley described the genus in
1846, deriving the generic name from the Greek word meaning "small canal" in
reference to the claw on the lip.

solitary (SOL-i-ter-ee) Borne singly or alone; an inflorescence of one flower.

somaclonal variant (som-a-KLONE-uhl VAHR-ee-ent) A sport that arises in plants

regenerated from tissue culture.

somatic cells (so-MAT-ik) Cell types other than those that are or give rise to the
germ cells (e.g., pollen or egg)

Sophronitella (sof-roh-NIT-ell-a) The single species in this genus comes from

Brazil. Schlechter founded the genus in 1925, using the diminutive form
of Sophronitis due to the close relationship of the two genera. Now the single
species is correctly, Isabelia violacea.

Sophronitis (sof-roh-NYE-tiss) A former genus of six species of dwarf

epiphytic orchids from Brazil and Paraguay. It was described by Lindley in 1824, the
name alluding to the modest size of the plants. These species are now part
of Cattleya.

sordidus, -a, -um (SOR-did-us) Dirty; usually meaning dull-colored; sordid.

sparsus, -a, -um (SPAR-sus) Few; far between; sparse.

spathaceous (spa-THAY-shus) Resembling or having a spathe.

spathe (SPAYTH) A large, stiff, usually leathery bract or pair of bracts subtending or
enclosing an inflorescence.

Spathoglottis (spath-oh-GLOT-tiss) A genus of 30 species of terrestrial orchids

distributed from northern India and southern China through Australia and New
Caledonia and naturalized elsewhere in the tropics, especially Hawaii. It is allied
to Calanthe and Phaius; described by Blume in 1825, the name alludes to the shape
of the lip of the flowers.

spathulatus, -a, -um (spath-yew-LAY-tus) Shaped like a spoon or spatula, round at

summit and narrow at base; spatulate.

specie (SPEE-see) Gold coin; not the singular of species.

species (SPEE-sheez) (sing. and pl.) A group of plants (or animals) showing
integration among its individuals and having in common one or more characteristics
that definitely separate it from any other group; a kind of plant distinct from other
kinds; a group of interbreeding individuals usually unable to interbreed with other
groups.

specific (speh-SIF-ik) Of or pertaining to a species.

specimen (speh-SIH-men) An individual exemplifying a group; a specimen plant is a

noteworthy example of cultivation to an unusually high degree; a herbarium
collection.

speciosissimus, -a, -um (spee-see-oh-SISS-i-mus) Eminently handsome, uniting

elegance of form and brilliancy of color.

speciosus, -a, -um (spee-see-OH-sus) Handsome in form and color; showy; fair.

spectabilis, -e (spek-TAB-il-is) Deserving especial notice by reason of intrinsic worth;

spectacular.

speculum (SPEK-yew-lum) A mirror or reflector, especially one of polished metal.

spermatophyte (spur-MAT-oh-fite) A seed-producing plant.

sphacelatus, -a, -um (sfass-ee-LAY-tus) Scorched; dead; diseased; some part

looking withered; sphacelate.

sphagnum:
Sphagnum moss is a popular
orchid potting material.
sphagnum (SFAG-num) A bog-moss of the genus Sphagnum, used dried or alive,
fresh or partially decomposed (peat), in some kinds of potting media to retain
moisture.

spheroidal (sfeer-OY-dul) A solid that is nearly spherical.

Sphyrarhynchus (sfeer-rah-RING-kuss) There is one, possibly two, epiphytic species

in this Tanzania genus. Mansfield described the genus in 1935, coining the generic
name from two Greek words meaning "hammer" and "beak" to denote the shape of
the rostellum.
spicatus, -a, -um (spy-KAY-tus) Bearing flowers arranged in or resembling a spike;
spicate.

spiciformis, -e (spye-sih-FOR-miss) In the form of a spike; spiciform.

spiculatus, -a, -um (spik-yew-LAY-tus) With a small, fleshy and erect point; spiculate.

spiculose (SPIK-yuh-lohs) Covered with fine points on the surface.

spike (spike) A type of inflorescence with stalkless (sessile) or short-stalked flowers

borne on an upright unbranched flower stem.

spiklet (spike-let) A small secondary spike.

spilopterus, -a, -um (spy-LOP-ter-us) Having spotted wings.

spine (spine) A sharp-pointed hard or woody outgrowth on a plant.

spinescent (SPY-ness-ent) Terminated in or bearing a spine.

spinosus, -a, -um (spy-NO-sus) Having spines; spiny; spinose.

spinulosus, -a, -um (spy-new-LO-sus) Having small spines; spinulose.

spiralis, -e (spy-RAY-lis) Spiralled; having flowers arranged in a spiral.

Spiranthes (spy-RAN-theez) A genus of 50 species of terrestrial orchids widely

distributed in the temperate zones of both hemispheres. It was founded by L.C.
Richard in 1818, the name referring to the spiraled arrangement of the flowers in
many species. Recent studies have removed most Neotropical species to a number
of other genera such as Sarcoglottis and Stenorrhynchos.

splendens (SPLEN-denz) Showy and handsome; radiant or shining; lustrous;

splendid.

splendidus, -a, -um (SPLEN-did-us) Magnificent; superb; glorious; splendid.

sporadic (SPORE-ad-ik) Not occurring continually

spore (spore) A simple reproductive body, usually composed of a single detached

cell and containing no embryo.

sport (sport) (1) A sudden spontaneous deviation from a typical form; a mutation; (2)
a plant or part of a plant that arises through mutation and is phenotypically different
from the parent.

spray (spray) (1) To scatter a liquid or powder in the form of fine particles; a
substance used for spraying (referring either to watering of plants or to the
application of pesticides); (2) a term for an inflorescence.

spreading (SPREH-ding) Extending outward or horizontally over a relatively large

area; diverging; said of floral segments that diverge to present a wide open flower.

spur (spuhr) A hollow, saclike or tubular extension of the base of the lip, often
bearing nectar.

squalens (SKWAL-enz) Dirty; becoming dull in color; squalid.

squalidus, -a, -um (SKWAL-id-us) Dirty; usually applied to flowers of dull color.

squamellate (SKWAM-ell-eyt) Having tiny scales.

squamosus, -a, -um (skwam-OH-sus) Covered with scurf; having a rough or ragged
surface.

squarrose (SKWAR-rohs) With parts spreading or recurved at ends.

stachys (STAK-iss) In Greek compounds, signifying a spike.

stalk (stawk) The supporting stem of an organ, such as petiole, peduncle, pedicel,
filament or stipe.

stamen (STAY-men) The male organ of the flower, which bears the pollen.

staminate (STAM-in-ayt) Male; having stamens only.

staminode (STAM-in-ohd) A sterile stamen, or any structure (without anther)
corresponding to a stamen.

standard (STAN-dard) Said of a digital dorsal sepal or petal

Stanhopea (stan-HOPE-a, although usually mispronounced stan-HOPE-ee-

a) A genus of 55 species of epiphytic orchids from the American tropics

related to Gongora and Coryanthes. Described by Frost in 1829, the name honors
the Right Honorable Philip Henry, fourth Earl of Stanhope, then just elected
president of the London Medico-Botanical Society.

stapelliflorum:
Grammatophylum stapelliflorum
has flowers that resemble a Stapelia.
stapeliaeflorus, -a, -um (stap-ee-lee-aye-FLOR-us) Having flowers like a Stapelia
(Asclepiadaceae).

stapelioides (sta-pee-lee-OY-deez) Resembling a Stapelia (Asclepiadaceae).

Staurochilus (star-oh-KYE-luss) There are about a dozen epiphytic monopodial

species in this Southeast Asian genus ranging from the Himalayas east to the
Philippines and south to Borneo. Ridley described the genus in 1896, deriving the
generic name from two Greek words meaning "cross" and "lip" to denote the shape
of the lip.

stele (STEE-lahy) An axial cylinder of vascular tissue; the primary arrangement of a

vascular system.

Stelis (STEE-lis) A genus of 370 species of minute-flowered epiphytic orchids from

the American tropics and subtropics characterized by greatly reduced petals and lip.
Related to Pleurothallis and Masdevallia, it was established in 1899 by Swartz, the
name alluding directly to the epiphytic habit of the genus.

stellatus, -a, -um (stell-AY-tus) Star-shaped; resembling a star; stellate.

stem (stem) The main axis of a plant, bearing leaves and flowers; distinguished from
the root-bearing axis.

Stenia (STEEN-ee-a) This genus consists of eight epiphytic species native to Central
America and northern South America. Lindley identified the genus in 1837, deriving
the generic name from the Greek word meaning "narrow" to denote the slender
pollinia in this genus.

Stenoglottis (sten-oh-GLOT-tiss) A genus of four species of terrestrial orchids from

Africa related to Habenaria. It was described in 1836 by Lindley, the name
apparently referring to the narrow irregular lobes of the lip.

stenophyllus, -a, -um (sten-oh-FILL-us) Narrow-leaved.

Stenorrhynchus (sten-or-RING-kuss) The 60 terrestrial species in this genus come

from the West Indies, Central America and tropical and temperate South America.
Richard identified the genus in 1818, deriving the generic name from two Greek
words meaning "narrow" and "snout" in reference to the flower's narrow rostellum.

sterile (STER-ill) Barren; imperfect.

sterile culture (STER-ill kuhl-chure) The growing of organisms under laboratory

conditions in an aseptic environment.

stigma (STIG-ma) That part of the pistil of a flower that is receptive to pollen.

stigmatic (stig-MAT-ik) Pertaining to the stigma.

 stipe:
Stipe of a Catasetum species with
pollinia attached to it.
stipe (stipe) The stalklike support of a pistil or other small organ such as a
pseudobulb or pollinium.

stipel (STAHY-puhl) A leaf appendage similar to a stipule

stipitatus, -a, -um (stip-i-TAY-tus) Having a stipe; stipitate.

stipule (SIP-yuhl) An appendage at the base of a leaf petiole

stolon (STOH-lon) An above-ground creeping stem producing roots or new shoots,

usually giving rise to new individuals.

stoloniferous (sto-lon-IFF-er-us) Producing or bearing stolons.

Stolz, Adolf (1871-1917) Early 20th-century German missionary and plant collector in
the former German East Africa (Nyassaland), commemorated in the genus Stolzia.

Stolzia (STOLST-ee-a) The 15 epiphytic, rarely lithophytic, species in this genus are
native to tropical Africa. Schlechter named the genus in 1915 in honor of Adolf Stolz,
a German missionary in Africa.

stoma (STOH-mah); pl. stomata (sto-MAH-tah) A pore or aperture in the epidermis

of leaves and some stems, surrounded by crescent-shaped guard cells and
facilitating gas exchange.

stramineus, -a, -um (stra-MIN-ee-us) Strawlike or straw-colored; stramineous.

stratiotes (strat-ee-OH-teez) Soldierly; resembling Stratiotes, an aquatic herb with
sword-like leaves.

streptopetalus, -a, -um (strep-toh-PET-a-lus) With twisted petals.

striatus, -a, -um (stry-AY-tus) Striped; marked with longitudinal lines, grooves, or
ridges; striate.

strictus, -a, -um (STRIK-tus) Very straight and upright; erect.

strigosus, -a, -um (strig-OH-sus) Set with stiff bristles; hispid; strigose.

striolatus, -a, -um (stry-oh-LAY-tus) Somewhat or faintly striped, or with fine lines.

strobilus (STROH-bil-us) An inflorescence with imbricate scales like a cone.

structural gene (STUK-chure-uhl jeen) A gene that codes for an enzyme or other
protein required for the structure or metabolism of a cell.

stylar canal (STY-lahr KAN-al) A tube connecting the stigmatic surface with the
ovary that allows the pollen tubes grow down into the ovary and thus fertilize the
ovules.

style (STY-uhl) The narrowed portion of the pistil that connects the ovary and the
stigma, not usually applicable to orchids.

stylidium (pl stylidia) (sty-LID-ee-um) An appendage to the column, typical of most

Bulbophyllum, usually filiform and less pronounced than structures referred to as
column wings.

suaveolens (swahv-ee-OH-lenz) Sweet-smelling.

suavis, -e (SWAH-viss) Sweet-scented; agreeable; delightful.

suavissimus, -a, -um (swahv-ISS-i-mus) Very fragrant.

sub- A prefix denoting an approach to the condition designated; nearly.

subacute (sub-a-KEWT) Somewhat or partially acute.

subcordatus, -a, -um (sub-kor-DAY-tus) Almost heart-shaped; subcordate.

subcoriaceous (sub-kor-ee-AY-shus) Somewhat or approaching leathery in texture.

subequal (sub-ee-KWAL) Nearly equal in size.

suberect (sub-ee-REKT) Nearly or almost upright.

suberosus, -a, -um (soo-ber-OH-sus) Cork-barked; corklike or corky; suberose.

subfalcatus, -a, -um (sub-fal-KAY-tus) Somewhat curved or hooked; subfalcate.

subgenus (sub-JEE-nus) One of the divisions into which large genera are
sometimes taxonomically divided; between the ranks of genus and section.

submersus, -a, -um (sub-MER-sus) Submerged; growing under water.

suborbicular (sub-or-BIK-yew-lar) Almost circular.

subsessile (sub-SESS-ill) Almost stalkless.

subspecies (sub-SPEE-sheez) Taxonomic category between a species and a

botanical variety, referring to a population having minor morphologic differences and
a distinct geographic range, abbreviated "ssp.": e.g., Rhynchostylis gigantea ssp.
violacea (Lindl.) Christ. for the Philippine plants of the Indochinese-Borneo species.

substance In evaluating orchid flowers, the qualities of firmness and durability.

substratum (SUB-strat-um) The material upon which a plant or germinating seed

grows; substrate.

subtended (sub-TEN-ded) Enclosed or embraced in its axil.

subterete (sub-ter-REET) Somewhat or imperfectly terete.

subterraneus, -a, -um (sub-ter-RAY-nee-us) Underground; subterranean.

subtribe (sub-TRY-b) Taxonomic category below a tribe, ending in "-inae": e.g.,
subtribe Angraecinae is one of the subtribes in the tribe Vandeae.

subulatus, -a, -um (sub-yew-LAY-tus) Awl-shaped; more or less cylindrical and

tapering to a point; subulate.

subulifolius, -a, -um (sub-yew-li-FOH-lee-us) Having foliage shaped like an awl.

succulent (suk-YUH-lent) Soft and juicy; fleshy; adapted to the retention of water.

sucker (suk-er) A shoot arising from the roots or beneath the surface of the ground.

suecicus, -a, -um (soo-EE-sik-us) Native of Sweden; Swedish.

suffrutescent (suf-FREW-tess-sent) Said of plants slightly woody at the base.

sulcatus, -a, -um (sull-KAY-tus) Grooved or furrowed longitudinally; sulcate.

sulphureus, -a, -um (sull-PHUR-ee-us) Sulfur-colored, light yellow

sumatranus, -a, -um (soo-ma-TRAY-nus) Native of Sumatra; Sumatran.

Summerhayes, Victor Samuel (1897—1974) English orchidologist whose career was

largely devoted to monographic and floristic study of African orchids.

Summerhayesia (Sum-mer-HAYZ-ee-a) There are two epiphytic species in this

tropical African genus. Cribb named the genus in 1977 in honor of Victor
Summerhayes, an expert on African orchids.

Sunipia (SU-nip-ee-a) The 18 epiphytic species in this genus are native from India
east to Taiwan. Smith described the genus in 1816, using a vernacular name from
Nepal.

super- (SOO-per) Prefix meaning above.

superbiens (soo-PER-bee-enz) Becoming grand and stately.

superbus, -a, -um (soo-PER-bus) Excellent, splendid; superb

superposed (soo-per-POHZD) Placed one on top of another.

Superior ovary (SOO-peer-ee-or OH-vah-ree) Said of an ovary that is completely

above the attachment of the calyx.

supinus, -a, -um (soo-PYE-nus) Prostrate; lying on its back; supine.

surculose (SUR-kyuh-lohs) Sucker-producing.

suture (SOO-cher) A line or groove marking a natural division or union.

Swartz, Olof (1760—1818) The first Western orchidologist, he published the first
enumeration of West Indian plants, including orchids, in 1788, and the first article
devoted exclusively to orchids in 1800, in which he established the two great
divisions of the orchid family that later were designated Monandrae and Diandrae.

Swamy, B.G.L. Anatomist who laid the groundwork for the study of vascular anatomy
and embryology in orchid flowers.

Sweet, Herman R. (1909—1991) Harvard orchidologist who made numerous

contributions to Andean orchid taxonomy and monographed Phalaenopsis.

sylhetensis, -e (sill-het-TEN-siss) Native of Sylhet, India.

sylvaticus, -a, -um (sill-VAT-i-kus) Of the woodlands or forests.

sylvestris, -e (sill-VEST-ris) Growing in woods; forest-loving.

symbiosis (sim-bi-OH-siss) The living together of dissimilar organisms with benefit

to both; in particular, the relationship between certain fungi and orchid seeds
germinating in the wild.

symbiotic (sim-bi-OT-ik) Referring to symbiosis.

symmetrical (sim-MET-rih-cuhl) Said of a flower that is regular as to the number of

parts and their arrangement in the perianth.
sympetalous (sim-PET-ah-luss) The petals being united, gamopetalous.

Symphyglossum (sim-fee-GLOSS-um) A small, possibly monotypic, genus of

epiphytic orchids from the Andes of South America. Related to and often merged
with Cochlioda, it was described by Schlechter in 1918, the name alluding to the
strong adnation of the lip to the column.

symphysis (SIM-fiss-iss) Growing together; coalescence.

symplesiomorphy (sim-PLEEZ-ee-oh-more-fee) A cladistic term meaning a shared

ancestral character state, as opposed to synapomorphy.

sympodial:
Sympodial growth using a
Cattleya to show the plant parts.
sympodial (sim-PO-dee-al) A form of growth in which each new shoot, springing
from a bud of the rhizome, is complete in itself and terminates in a potential
inflorescence, such as in the genus Cattleya, the plant usually growing in a
horizontal direction.

synapomorphy (syn-APP-oh-more-fee) A cladistic term meaning a shared derived

character state, implying a common phylogenetic history, as opposed to
symplesiomorphy (which see).

synonym (SIN-uh-nim) A scientific name considered the same as an earlier name

for a species of plant or animal, hence superfluous.

synsepalum (sin-SEP-a-lum) The ventral portion of the flower of the lady's-slipper

orchids formed by the fusion of the lateral sepals; synsepal.
syringe (sih-RINJ) To sprinkle or spray lightly with fine jets.

syringothyrsus, -a, -um (si-ring-oh-THEER-sus) With trusses of flowers like a lilac.

systematics (sis-tuh-MAT-iks) The science of nomenclature, identification and

classification of organisms.

T
tabeculate (tab-ih-KUY-layt) Cross-barred.

tabularis, -e (tab-ew-LAY-riss) Having a flat surface like a table or board; tablelike.

taedigerus, -a, -um (tee-DIJ-er-us) Torch-bearing.

taenialis, -e (tee-nee-AY-liss) Ribbonlike; banded.

Tang, T. (1894—1984) Chinese orchidologist who published with F.T. Wang.

taurinus, -a, -um (taw-RYE-nus) Having horns like a bull; bull-like.

taxon (pl. taxa) (TAKS-on) A general term applied to a taxonomic category of any
rank, such as species, genus, family, order, etc.

taxonomy (tak-SON-oh-mee) The science of classification, dealing with the

arrangement of plants (or animals) into groups according to natural relationships.

tardus, -a, -um (TAR-dus) Late.

 Telipogon:
Telipogon hausmannianus, from
Colombia, Ecuador and Venezuela

Telipogon (tel-i-POH-gon) A genus of 100 species of tropical American dwarf

epiphytic orchids found in the high cloud forests from Costa Rica to Peru. It was
established by Humboldt, Bonpland and Kunth in 1815, the name descriptive of the
bearded column.

tendril (TEN-drill) A twisting threadlike process of extension by which a plant grasps

an object and clings to it for support; morphologically it may be stem or leaf.

tenebrosus, -a, -um (ten-eh-BROH-sus) Dark; growing in shaded places.

tenuifolius, -a, -um (ten-yew-ee-FOH-lee-us) Slender-leaved.

tenuis, -e (TEN-yew-iss) Slender; delicate.

teratological (ter-a-toh-LOJ-ik-ul) Monstrous; relating to a monstrosity.

teres (TEH-reez) Long and cylindrical; terete.

terete (teh-REET) Cylindrical; circular in cross section.

 teretifolia:
Dendrobium teretifolia has leaves
that are circular in cross section.
teretifolius, -a, -um (teh-ree-ti-FOH-lee-us) Having terete leaves.

terminal (ter-MIN-uhl) Apical; produced at the end.

terminology (ter-min-OL-a-gee) The system of terms dealing with a given science or

subject.

ternatus, -a, -um (ter-NAY-tus) In clusters of three; ternate.

terrestrial (ter-RESS-tree-uhl) Growing in the ground and supported by soil.

terrestris, -e (ter-REST-tris) Of the ground; growing in the ground as opposed to

growing in trees, on rocks, or in water.

tessellatus, -a, -um (tess-sel-LAY-tus) Arranged in a checkered or mosaic pattern;

tessellated.

testa (pl. testae) (TESS-ta; TESS-tee) The outer seed coat, particularly when bony,
hard or brittle.
 testacea:
Vanda testacea has brick-red
flowers.
testaceus, -a, -um (tes-TAY-se-us) Of a brick-red or brownish-red color; testaceous.

tetrad (TET-rad) A structure formed of four cells, as in the pollen mother-cells; a

group of four.

tetragonus, -a, -um (tet-trah-GO-nus) Having four angles.

tetramerous Any group with four members.

Tetramicra (te-tra-MYE-kra) A genus of 11 species of epiphytic orchids from the

Caribbean related to Laelia and Cattleya. It was established in 1831 by Lindley, the
name referring to the four small compartments of the anthers.

tetraploid (TET-tra-ployd) Having four sets of chromosomes (4N).

Teuscher, Heinrich ("Henry") (1891—1984) German botanist at the Montreal

Botanical Garden (curator; 1936—1972) who authored the long-running series
"Collector's Item" in American Orchid Society Bulletin (1953—1978).

Teuscheria (TOY-shur-ee-a) The six epiphytic species in this genus range from
Costa Rica south to Peru. Garay established the genus in 1958, naming it in honor of
Canadian botanist Henry Teuscher.

thalloid (THAL-loyd) Looking like a thallus.

thallus (THAL-uhs) Said of a plant part that does not have true roots, stem or leaves
 Thecopus:
Thecopus maingayi is found in
Thailand, Viet Nam, Borneo and Malaysia.
Thecopus (THEE-ko-puss) A small genus of two epiphytic species native from
Thailand southeast to Borneo. Seidenfaden described the genus in 1983, deriving
the generic name from two Greek words "box" and "foot," possibly a reference to the
shape of the column.

Thecostele (THEE-ko-stee-lee) A monotypic epiphytic genus widespread throughout

southeast Asia, from northern and eastern India, east to the Philippines and south to
Borneo and Java. Reichenbach identified the genus, in 1857, coining the generic
name from two Greek words "box" and "column" to denote the shape of the column.

Thelymitra (thel-lee-MYE-tra) A genus of 50 species of terrestrial orchids chiefly from

Australia and New Zealand, popularly called "sun orchids." It was established in
1776 by Forst, the name possibly alluding to the ornate wings of the column.

thorn (thorn) A spine.

Thrixspermum (THRIKS-sper-mum) The 100 epiphytic or lithophytic species in this

genus are widespread from the Himalayas east to the Philippines and the tropical
southwest Pacific Islands. Loureiro described the genus in 1790, deriving the generic
name from two Greek words "hair" and "seed" to denote the hair-like seeds.

throat (throat) The lower part of the tube of orchids having a tubular lip.

Thunia (THOO-nee-ah) A genus of five species of terrestrial and

semiterrestrial orchids from the mountains of northeast India and Burma to Malaya
related to Arundina. It was named by Reichenbach in 1852 in honor of Count von
Thun Hohenstein of Tetschin, Bohemia.

thyrse, thyrsus (THURSS, THUR-sus) A compact, more or less compound panicle;

more correctly a paniclelike cluster with main axis indeterminate and other axes
cymose; the inflorescence of a grape.

thyrsiflorus, -a, -um (thur-si-FLOR-us) Having flowers in a thyrse or compact

clustered panicle.

tibicinis:
The lip of Myrmecophila tibicinis
resembles a trumpet.
tibicinis, -e (tib-i-SIN-iss) Of a flute-player; resembling a flute or trumpet.

Ticoglossum (tee-ko-GLOSS-um) The two epiphytic species in this genus are native
to Costa Rica and Panama. Halbinger described the genus in 1983, deriving the
generic name from the Costa Rican word "tico," an affectionate name for Costa
Ricans and the Greek word "tongue" to denote the similarity of this genus
to Odontoglossum.

tigrinus, -a, -um (ti-GRYE-nus) Striped or spotted like a tiger.

tissue culture (TISH-yu KULL-chure) The culture of cells in vitro.

titanus, -a, -um (tye-TAY-nus) Very large; titanic.

 Tolumnia:
Tolumnia pulchella is found in
Jamaica.

Tolumnia (toh-LUM-nee-ah) A genus of 35 species of diminutive fan-shaped

epiphytes from the West Indies, formerly included in a broadly defined Oncidium and
known horticulturally as equitant, or variegata oncidiums.

tomentosus, -a, -um (to-men-TOH-sus) Densely pubescent with matted hairs; woolly;
tomentose.

tomentum (toh-MEN-tum) A covering of densely matted hairs.

tonsus, -a, -um (TON-sus) Sheared; smooth-shaved.

torose (TAWR-ohs) Round with swellings at the internodes.

torridus, -a, -um (TOR-rid-us) Growing in hot, dry places.

tortilis, -e (TOR-ti-liss) Twisted; coiled; tortile.

torus (TORE-uhs) The receptacle of the flower.

totipotency (toh-TIP-oh-ten-see) The principle that each cell has the genetic
information needed to code for an entire individual, and hence small pieces of tissue
can be used to generate adult plants through micropropagation.

toxicarius, -a, -um (tok-si-KAY-ree-us) Poisonous; toxic.

trailing (TRAY-ling) Said of plants with stems growing horizontally but not rooting
along the stem.

transcription (tranz-CRIP-shun) The process of producing RNA from a DNA

template.

translation (tranz-LAY-shun) The process of producing proteins from a RNA

template.

translucent (tranz-LOO-sent) Partially transparent to light.

transpiration (tran-spir-AY-shun) The evaporation of water through stomata of

leaves and stems.

transplanting (tranz-PLAN-ting) The transferring of seedlings from the original

germinating flask to pots, or older plants from one container to another.

transversely (tranz-VERS-lee) Broader than long; at right angles to an axis.

trapeziformis, -e (trap-ee-zi-FORM-iss) An unsymmetrical four-sided figure; with four

unequal sides; trapeziform.

tree fern:
Tree fern is available in shaped
products as well as shredded.
tree fern A large tropical or subtropical fern, generally of the family Cyatheaceae,
whose fibrous trunk is used is a potting medium for orchids, either in shredded form,
in the form of logs or in shaped blocks; it is commonly known by the Hawaiian term
hapuu or the Brazilian xaxim .

tremulus, -a, -um (TREM-yew-lus) Quivering; trembling; tremulous.

Trevoria (treh-VORE-ee-a) The five epiphytic species in this genus are native from
Nicaragua south to Bolivia. Lehmann described the genus in 1897, naming it in
honor of Sir Trevor Lawrence, president of the Royal Horticultural Society and an
avid orchid grower.

tri- (tri) A prefix meaning three.

triad (TRI-ad) In a group of three

triandrus, -a, -um (trye-AN-drus) With three stamens; triandrous.

Trias (TREE-ahs) There are some 10 epiphytic species in this genus ranging from
India east to Thailand and Laos, with Thailand the richest in species. Lindley
founded the genus in 1830, deriving the generic name from the Greek word "three"
to denote the triangular flowers.

tribe (tribe) A primary taxonomic category of related genera, or the fundamental

division of an order.

tricarpus, -a, -um (try-KAR-pus) Having three carpels or fruits.

Trichocentrum:
Trichocentrum pulchrum is a
small-growing species.

Trichocentrum (trik-oh-SEN-trum) A genus of 70 species of epiphytic orchids

distributed from Mexico to Brazil and Peru. It is related to Oncidium, the name
applied in 1837 by Poeppig and Endlicher, referring to the long, slender spur of the
flowers of most species. The genus now includes what were formerly known as
"mule ear" and "rat tail" oncidiums.
Trichoceros (trik-oh-SER-os) A genus of five epiphytic or lithophytic species of South
American compact epiphytic orchids from the Andes of Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and
Bolivia. Related to Telipogon, it was described in 1815 by Humboldt, Bonpland and
Kunth, the name referring to the hairy antenna-like processes on each side of the
column.

Trichoglottis (trik-oh-GLOT-tiss) A genus of 60 epiphytic species of

vandaceous orchids from Sri Lanka to New Guinea, it was established by Blume in
1825, the name referring to the pubescence on the lip of the flowers.

trichome (TRYE-kohm) The correct botanical term for any hairlike outgrowth of the
epidermis, as a hair or bristle.

Trichopilia (trik-oh-PILL-ee-ah) A genus of 33 epiphytic species of rather showy,

pseudobulbous orchids distributed from Mexico to Bolivia and Brazil. It was
described in 1836 by Lindley, the name derived from the fringed margin of the
column.

Trichosalpinx (trik-oh-SALL-pinks) A genus of 90 epiphytic species of diminutive

Neotropical epiphytes formerly included in a broadly defined Pleurothallis,
characterized in part by lepanthiform leaf sheaths. The genus was established by
Luer in 1983 when he removed these species from Pleurothallis.

Trichotosia (trik-oh-TOH-see-ah) A genus of 45 epiphytic species of Asian and

Pacific orchids formerly included in a broadly defined Eria, usually characterized by
the presence of dense, prominent trichomes. Blume founded the genus in 1825,
deriving the generic name from the Greek word meaning "hairy" to denote the hair
on the lip.

tricolor (TRI-kuhl-er) Three-colored.

tricostate (trye-KOSS-tayt) With three ribs.

Tridactyle (tri-DAKT-ee-lee) The 45 epiphytic species in this genus are found in

tropical Africa and South Africa. Schlechter described the genus in 1914, coining the
generic name from two Greek words "three or thrice" and "finger" to denote the
distinct three-lobed lip.
tridentatus, -a, -um (trye-den-TAY-tus) Three-toothed; tridentate.

trifidus, -a, -um (TRYE-fid-us) Three-cleft; trifid.

trifoliatus, -a, -um (trye-foh-lee-AY-tus) Having three leaves; trifoliate.

trigeneric (trye-jen-ER-ik) Of or pertaining to three genera, usually applied in

reference to hybrids derived from the combination of three parent genera.

Trigonidium:
Trigonidium egertonianum is
common throughout Central and South America.
Trigonidium (trye-goh-NID-ee-um) A small genus of epiphytic orchids that range from
Mexico to Brazil. Related to Maxillaria, it was described in 1837 by Lindley, who
derived the name from the strongly triangular form of the sepals.

trigonous (TRI-go-nus) Three-angled.

trilinguis, -e (trye-LING-gwiss) Three-tongued.

trilobate (trye-LOH-bayt) With three lobes.

trimerous (tri-MER-us) Occurring in threes.

trimorphous (tri-MOR-fuss) Having three forms.

triploid (TRIP-loyd) Having three sets of chromosomes (3N).

tripudians (trye-PEW-dee-anz) Dancing.

tripunctatus, -a, -um (trye-punk-TAY-tus) Three-spotted.

triquetrus, -a, -um (trye-KWET-rus) Three-cornered.

trisected (tri-SEK-ted) Divided into three deeply cut parts.

Trisetella (try-se-TELL-ah) A genus of 20 Neotropical casespitose epiphytic

species formerly included in a broadly defined Masdevallia. Luer founded the genus
in 1989, deriving the generic name from the Latin word meaning "three hairs" to
denote the tail-like projections ("tails") on the sepals.

tristis, -e (TRIS-tiss) Dull-colored; dull; sad.

triumphans (trye-UM-fanz) Conquering; excelling all others; triumphant.

Trizeuxis (trye-ZEWK-siss) A monotypic genus of tropical American dwarf epiphytes

from Costa Rica to Bolivia related to Oncidium. It was founded by Lindley in 1821,
the name derived from the cohesion of the three sepals.

tropicus, -a, -um (TROP-ik-us) Of or from the tropics.

Trudelia (TRUE-dell-ee-a) The five sympodial epiphytic species in this genus range
from the Himalayas east to Vietnam. Garay described the genus in 1986, naming it
in honor of Niklaus Trudel, a Swiss orchid grower and photographer.

trulla (TRULL-ah) Trowel-shaped.

trulliferus, -a, -um (trul-LIFF-er-us) Trowel-bearing.

trulliformis, -e (trull-i-FORM-iss) Trowel-shaped; trulliform.

truncatus, -a, -um (trun-KAY-tus) Terminating abruptly, as if shortened by removal of

the apex; truncate.

tubatus, -a, -um (tew-BAY-tus) Trumpet-shaped.

tuber (TEW-ber) An underground stem or root, giving rise to new shoots and roots.

tubercle (TEW-ber-kul) A small tuber or tuberlike body, not necessarily

subterranean.

tuberculatus, -a, -um (tew-ber-kew-LAY-tus) Covered with wartlike excrescences;

tuberculate.

tuberiferous (TEW-ber-if-er-us Having tubers

tuberoid (TEW-ber-oyd) A thickened root resembling a tuber, as those found in

many terrestrial orchids.

tuberosus, -a, -um (tew-ber-OH-sus) Having the character of a tuber; tuberlike in

appearance; tuberous.

tumidus, -a, -um (TEW-mid-us) Swollen; tumid.

tunicatus, -a, -um (tew-ni-KAY-tus) Provided with concentric or enwrapping coats or

layers, as the bulb of an onion; tunicate.

turbinatus, -a, -um (ter-bin-AY-tus) Inversely conical; shaped like a top; turbinate.

turface (TER-face) An extruded clay product used as an ingredient in orchid

composts.

turgidus, -a, -um (TER-jid-us) Inflated, swollen to fullness; turgid.

type:
Cycnoches loddigesii.jpg is the
type for the genus, Cycnoches.
type (tipe) The original representative of a species, genus or other taxon, upon
which the distinguishing characters of the taxon are based; type specimen.
type specimen (tipe SPEH-sih-men) The original material used to describe a new
species, used to anchor nomenclatural usage, variously modified as: holotype, the
one original element before a scientist; isotype, duplicates of the holotype; lectotype,
a secondary original element selected as the nomenclatural type when the holotype
has been destroyed; neotype, a specimen designated as the nomenclatural type
when all original material is lacking; topotype, a specimen from the same locality as
the holotype; etc.

typicus, -a, -um (TIP-ik-us) Agreeing with the type of a group; typical

uliginosa:
Capanemia uliginosa 'Dolores'
CCM/AOS grows in swampy
forests In Minas Gerais and
Rio de Janeiro states of Brazil.
ubiquitous (yoo-BIK-wi-tuhs) Everywhere; growing in all types of habitats.

uliginosus, -a, -um (yew-lij-in-OH-sus) Of or from marshes and wet places.

umbel (UM-bell) An inflorescence in which the peduncles or pedicels of a cluster

spring from the same point on the floral axis.

umbellate (UM-bell-ayt) Like an umbel

umbellet (UM-bell-et) A secondary umbel

umbrosus, -a, -um (um-BROH-sus) Shade-loving.

uncinatus, -a, -um (un-sin-AY-tus) Hooked; bent at the end; like a hook; uncinate.

undulatus, -a, -um (un-dew-LAY-tus) Waved; wavy; with a wavy margin or surface;
undulate.

unguiculatus, -a, -um (un-gwik-yew-LAY-tus) Contracted at the base into a claw or

narrow stalk; unguiculate.

uniflora:
Anguloa uniflora bears single
flowers.
uni- (YOO-nee or YOO-nih) A prefix meaning one.

unicornis, -e (yew-ni-KOR-niss) One-horned.

uniflorus, -a, -um (yew-ni-FLOR-us) One-flowered, or having single-flowered

peduncles.

unifoliate (yew-ni-FOH-lee-ayt) One-leaved.

unilateral (yew-ni-LAT-er-ul) One-sided; arranged on a single side only; secund.

unisexual (yew-ni-SEK-shu-al) With flowers of one sex only, either staminate (male)
or pistillate (female).
 unisexual:
Cycnoches cooperi bears
flowers that are either male or female.
Shown here is a female flower.
urceolatus, -a, -um (er-see-oh-LAY-tus) Hollow and cylindrical or ovoid, and
contracted at or below the mouth like an urn; urn-shaped; urceolate.

urens (YEW-renz) Stinging; burning.

urophyllus, -a, -um (yew-roh-FILL-us) With leaves like a tail.

ursinus, -a, -um (er-SYE-nus) Like a bear, in smell or other respects.

utilis, -e (YEW-till-iss) Useful.

utricle (YEW-trih-kuhl) A bladder-like body

utricularioides (yew-trik-yew-layr-ee-OY-deez) Resembling the bladderwort,

Utricularia (Lentibulariaceae.)

utriculatus, -a, -um (yew-trik-yew-LAY-tus) Bladderlike; inflated; utriculate

V
vagans (VAY-ganz) Of wide distribution; wandering.

vaginatus, -a, -um (vaj-i-NAY-tus) Having sheaths; vaginate.

valid publication (VAL-id) Publication in accordance with the rules of the
International Codes of Nomenclature.

validus, -a, -um (VAL-id-us) Strong; well-developed.

vallecula (vuh-LEK-yuh-luh) Said of grooves between ridges.

valvate (VAL-vayt) Opening by valves or pertaining to valves; meeting at the edges

without overlapping, as leaves or petals in the bud.

valve (valv) A separable part of a pod; the units or pieces into which a capsule slits
or divides in dehiscing.

Vanda (VAN-da) A genus of about 50 showy epiphytic orchids of monopodial

habit found in the Asiatic tropics, it was described by Jones in 1795, the name being
derived from the Sanskrit for the orchid Vanda tessellata.

vandaceous (van-DAY-shuss) An adjective referring to any large monopodial

orchid, usually restricted to Asiatic genera with the parallel term angraecoid applying
to African plants.

Vandopsis (van-DOP-siss) A genus of five species of vandaceous orchids,

distributed from Myanmar and Thailand to the Philippines and New Guinea, closely
allied to Sarcanthopsis and Trichoglottis, it was described in 1889 by Pfitzer, the
name implying a resemblance to Vanda.

Vanilla (va-NIL-la) A genus of 100 species of vinelike orchids, widely

distributed in the tropics and subtropics of both hemispheres, it is related
to Epistephium; described in 1799 by Swartz, the name is derived from the
Spanish vainilla, meaning "little pod," and refers to the slender podlike fruit.

variabilis, -e (vair-ee-AY-bil-liss) Varying in form or color; variable.

variegatus, -a, -um (vair-ee-GAY-tus) Irregularly colored in patches; blotched;

variegated.
varietal (vuh-RYE-eh-tuhl) Of or pertaining to a variety; having the character of a
variety or subspecies.

variety:
Cattleya gaskelliana variety
(abbreviated: var.) alba has
white flowers instead of the typical
lavender-pink color.
variety (vuh-RYE-eh-tee) A subset of the population having minor characteristics
which distinguish it from the type of the species. (For horticultural variety, see
cultivar)

vascular (VAS-kewl-er) Pertaining to, composed, of, or provided with vessels or

ducts which convey fluids such as water and sap.

vegetative (VEJ-i-tay-tiv) That part of the plant, such as the stem and leaves, not
directly concerned with reproduction.

vegetative propagation (VEJ-i-tay-tiv prah-pah-GAY-shun) The increasing of a

plant population through cuttings, divisions, bud stimulation, protocorm proliferation,
and various techniques of tissue culture.

vegetus, -a, -um (VEJ-et-us) Lively; vigorous.

vein (vayn) A strand of fibro-vascular tissue (vascular bundle) in a leaf or other

organ through which water and other fluids are conducted.
 velamen:
Velamane is the sponge-like
covering of orchid roots.
velamen (VEL-lah-min) The layer or layers of cells covering the roots of epiphytic
orchid which aid in the rapid absorption and assimilation of water and mineral
nutrients.

velamentous (vel-ah-MEN-tus) Resembling or having a velamen.

velaris, -e (vel-AY-riss) Pertaining to a veil.

velatus, -a, -um (vel-LAY-tus) Veiled.

velox (VEE-loks) Quick-growing.

velutinus, -a, -um (vel-YEW-tin-us) Velvety; soft; velutinous.

venosus, -a, -um (vee-NOH-sus) Veined; having many or prominent veins; venous;
venose.

ventral (VEN-trahl) Referring to the lower surface of an organ such as a leaf; that
surface that faces the center or axis of a flower; opposite of dorsal.

ventricosus, -a, -um (ven-tri-KOH-sus) Distended; swelling, especially on one side;

unevenly inflated; ventricous; ventricose.

venustus, -a, -um (vee-NOOS-tus) Comely; graceful; ladylike; charming.

veratrifolius, -a, -um (veh-rat-tri-FOH-lee-us) Having leaves like Veratrum nigrum, the
black hellebore.
verecundus, -a, -um (veh-re-KUN-dus) Modest, shy, coy; blushing; verecund.

vermiculite (ver-MIH-cuhl-ite) A heat-expanded mica sometimes used to provide

aeration in orchid-potting media.

vernal (VER-nuhl) Appearing in the spring.

vernalis, -e (ver-NAY-liss) Of the spring; spring-flowering; vernal.

vernation (ver-NAY-shun) The disposition or arrangement of leaves within the bud.

vernicosus, -a, -um (ver-ni-KOH-sus) Shiny, as though varnished; vernicose.

verrucosus, -a, -um (ver-rew-KOH-sus) Covered with wartlike elevations or

excrescences; verrucose.

versicolor (VER-si-kul-er) Changeable in color; variously colored; versicolor.

verticil (VER-ti-sill) A circle of foliar organs, flowers or inflorescences about the

same point on the axis; a whorl.

verticillastrate (VER-ti-sill-a-strayt) Said of leaves arranged in a group resembling a

whorl.

verticillatus, -a, -um (ver-tis-sil-LAY-tus) Arranged in a whorl, like the spokes of a

wheel; verticillate.

verus, -a, -um (VEE-rus) True; genuine; true to type; standard.

vesicle (VESS-i-kul) A small bladder or air-cavity.

vescus, -a, -um (VESS-kus) Thin; feeble; gross-feeding.

vespertinus, -a, -um (ves-per-TYE-nus) Of the evening; evening-blooming.

vestalis, -e (ves-TAY-liss) Virgin-like; chaste; vestal.

vestigial (ves-TIJ-ee-al) Rudimentary; imperfectly developed or underdeveloped.

vestitus, -a, -um (ves-TYE-tus) Clothed with soft hairs; covered.

vexillaris, -e (vek-sill-AY-riss) Showy, like a banner or vexillum, the flag carried by an

ancient Roman soldiers.

vexillaria:
Miltoniopsis vexillaria has showy
flowers, like a banner.
vexillarius, -a, -um (vek-sil-LAY-ree-us) Bearing a flag or banner; a standard-bearer.

viability (vye-a-BILL-ih-tee) The capability of survival.

viable (VYE-a-buhl) Capable of survival and development, as the germination of

seed.

viatical (VYE-at-ih-kuhl) Said of plants growing by paths or streams.

villosus, -a, -um (vill-OH-sus) Shaggy; clothed with long, soft hairs; villous; villose.

vinosus, -a, -um (vye-NOH-sus) Wine-red in color.

violaceus, -a, -um (vye-oh-LAY-see-us). Violet-colored; violaceous.

 virginalis:
Sobralia virginalis has pristine
white flowers.
violescens (vye-oh-LESS-enz) Almost violet-colored; turning violet.

virens (VYE-renz). Fresh-looking; lively green.

virescens (vih-REH-senz). Light green; having a tendency to turn green.

virgatus, -a, -um (ver-GAY-tus). Rodlike; long, slender, and straight; twiggy; virgate.

virginalis, -e (ver-jin-AY-liss). Maidenly; pure white; virginal.

viridescens (veer-i-DESS-enz). Becoming green.

viridipurpureus, -a, -um (vi-rid-i-purr-PURR-ee-us). Greenish purple.

viridiflorus, -a, -um (vi-rid-i-FLOR-us). With green flowers; green-flowered.

viridis, -e (VEER-i-diss). Green.

virus (VYE-russ) An infective or disease-producing parasitic agent smaller than

common microorganisms and requiring living cells for multiplication.
 virus:
Cattleya lodigesii flower
exhibiting color break typical
of a virus infected plant.
Click image for video.
viscid (VISS-id). Sticky; glutinous.

viscidium (vi-SID-ee-um). The portion of a rostellum that affixes the pollinarium to a

pollinator

vitellinus, -a, -um (vye-tell-LYE-nus). The color of an egg yolk; vitelline.

vittatus, -a, -um (vit-TAY-tus). Banded; marked with longitudinal stripes; also,
provided with a vitta or vittae; vittate.

viviparous (vye-VIP-a-ruhs) Growing or sprouting on the parent plant.

volute (VOH-lewt) Rolled.

volutus, -a, -um (voh-LOO-tus). Rolled up like a scroll; having rolled leaves; volute.
volubilis, -e (vol-YEW-bil-iss). Twining; rolling; turning.

vulcanicus, -a, -um (vul-KAN-ik-us). Growing on the sides of a volcano.

vulgaris, -e (vul-GARE-iss). Common; ordinary.

Vuylstekeara (vowl-schtayk-ee-AH-rah). A former hybrid genus derived

from Cochlioda, Miltonia and Odotoglossum created in 1912 and named in honor of
C. Vuylsteke, an orchid hybridizer. With the reordering of the Onciidinae most of
these hybrids are now called Oncidopsis
W
Wang, F. T. (1929—) Prominent Chinese botanist who published with T. Tang.

warm house (wawrm hous) A greenhouse intended for the growing of warm-growing
tropical plants, the minimum night temperature usually maintained at 60 F.

Warmingia:
Warmingia eugenii is one of four
species in the genus.

Warmingia (war-MING-ee-a) The four epiphytic species in this genus are

native to Brazil. Reichenbach described the genus, in 1881, naming it in honor of
Prof. Eugenius Warming, who founded the science of Ecology.

Warrea (WARR-ee-ah) A genus of four species of mainly South American terrestrial

orchids, related to Zygopetalum. It was established in 1843 by Lindley who named it
in honor of Frederick Warre, Esq., who first collected the type species in Brazil in
1829.

Warrella (WAR-ee-a) The two terrestrial species in this genus come from the
mountains of Colombia and Venezuela. Schlechter founded the genus, in 1914,
using the diminutive form of Warrea to denote that this was a segregate genus.

Warczewiczella (var-shuh-vi-CHEL-lah) A small genus of tropical American epiphytic

orchids with eleven species. Warczewiczella was described by Reichenbach in 1852
in honor of the Polish botanist Dr. Josef Warscewicz (1812—1866), who collected in
Central and South America.
weed (weed) Any plant growing out of place.

wetting agent (WET-ing AY-gent) Any surfactant, functionally aiding the even
dispersal and application of pesticides.

whorl (wurl) The arrangement of parts, such as leaves, in a circle around an axis.

World Orchid Conference:

Crowds at the 19th World Orchid
Conference, held in Miami in 2009.
Williams, Louis O. (1908—1991) American botanist, expert on Mesoamerican plants,
orchidologist specializing in Fiji, Argentina, and Mexican and/or Mesoamerican
floristics, commemorated by numerous plants including the genus Neowilliamsia.

Wilsonara (wil-sun-AH-ra) A former hybrid genus derived

from Cochlioda, Odontoglossum and Oncidium created in 1916. With the reordering
of the Onciidinae these hybrids are now Oncicium.

wing (wing) Any more or less membranaceous expansion of an organ or part.

woolly (WUL-lee) Provided with long, soft, and more or less matted hairs; like wool;
lanate.

World Orchid Conference (WOC) A triennial event established in October 1954,

the first one held in St. Louis, Missouri.

wort (wort) An old word for a plant or herb; now used only in combination, as
"motherwort," "spiderwort," "liverwort."
X

xanthina: Cattleya xanthina has yellow flowers.

xanthinus, -a, -um (zan-THYE-nus) Yellow; yellowish; xanthous.

xanthodon (ZAN-thoh-don) Yellow-toothed.

xantholeucus, -a, -um (zan-tho-LEW-kuss) Yellowish white.

xanthophlebius, -a, -um (zan-tho-FLEE-bi-us) Yellow-veined.

xanthophyllus, -a, -um (zan-tho-FILL-us) Yellow-leaved.

xanthous Yellow or yellow-green.

xaxim (SHAH-sheem) Brazilian term for tree fern and also for the fiber from it.

xerophyte: Cattleya teretecaulis grows as a xerophyte

on the rocks of Minas Gerais, Brazil.
xerophyte (ZEER-oh-fite) A plant adapted for growth under dry conditions.

xiphifolius, -a, -um (ziff-i-FOH-lee-us) Having leaves like an Iris; iris-leaved;

swordlike.

xylem (ZYE-lem) That part of a vascular bundle which consists of vessel elements,
tracheids and associated cells, which function in water transport throughout the
plant.

Xylobium (zye-LOH-bee-um) A genus of 29 species of pseudobulbous epiphytic

orchids from Central and South America, related to Bifrenaria and Lycaste. It was
established by Lindley in 1825, the name referring to the epiphytic habit of the
species.

Xylobium: Xylobium colleyi is widespread throughout

the tropical Americas.

Y
 Eric Young:
Eric Young Orchid Foundation
exhibit at the 16th World Orchid
Conference, Vancouver, 1999.
Young, Eric (1911—1984) Avid orchid horticulturist and benefactor, founder of the
pre-eminent Eric Young Orchid Foundation on Jersey and the Eric Young
Micropropagation Centre at the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Sarasota, Florida.

Ypsilopus (YIP-sil-oh-puss) The four epiphytic species in this genus come from
tropical East and Central Africa. Summerhayes established the genus, in 1949,
deriving the generic name from two Greek words "the letter Y" and "foot" to denote
the "Y" shaped stipe of the pollinarium

Z
zebrinus, -a, -um (ze-BRYE-nus) Zebra-striped; striped.

Zeuxine (zook-SEEN-ee) A genus of 30 species of terrestrial orchids

extending from Africa through India and Malaysia to Samoa, and recently introduced
into southern United States. Many Zeuxine species are "jewel orchids" related
to Erythrodes and Goodyera and were established by Lindley in 1825, the name
probably referring to the partial union of the lip and column.

zeylanicus, -a, -um (zee-LAN-ik-us) Native of Ceylon; Ceylanese.

zonatus, -a,-um (zoh-NAY-tus) Banded or marked with a zone of a distinct color;

zonate.
Zootrophion (zo-oh-TRO-fee-on) A small genus of 11 epiphytic species from
Jamaica, Central and South America. Luer founded the genus, in 1982, coining the
generic name from the Greek word "menagerie" as he likened the flowers to animal
heads.

Zootrophion:
Zootrophion hirtzii has flowers that resemble an animal head.
zygomorphic (zye-go-MOR-fik) Capable of being divided into symmetrical halves in
one plane only (usually the anterior-posterior), as the flowers of orchids; bilaterally
symmetrical.

Zygopetalum (zye-go-PET-a-lum) A genus of 15 species of terrestrial and

epiphytic orchids restricted to South America. It is related to Colax and Promenaea,
having been founded by Hooker in 1827, the name referring to the yokelike callus on
the base of the lip.

Zygosepalum (zye-go-SEP-ah-lum) A genus of seven species of handsome

epiphytic orchids from northern South America, related to Zygopetalum and formerly
known as Menadenium. It was founded by Reichenbach in 1803, the name referring
to the sepals that are basally connate.
 Zygosepalum:
Zygosepalum lindeniae is found northern South America.

Zygostates (zye-go-STAY-teez) A genus of seven species of dwarf epiphytes

from South America, related to Ornithocephalus. It was established by Lindley in
1837, the name referring to the well-developed staminodes at the base of the
column.

zygote (ZYE-goht) The cell produced by the union of two gametes; the individual
developing from such a cell