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Clown Orchid Wikimedia Commons
Orchidaceae

Clown Orchid

Rossioglossum grande

Playful splendor.

Family
Orchidaceae
Genus
Rossioglossum
Native to
Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras
Bloom season
Fall, Winter
Type
epiphyte
Height
1-1.5 ft
Sunlight
part shade
Soil
orchid bark, epiphytic mix
Water
moderate
Hardiness
10-12
Lifespan
perennial

Did you know

  • The large flowers can reach 6 inches across and feature bold yellow and brown tiger-stripe patterns.
  • The lip of the flower has a small figure that resembles a dancing clown or jester, giving it the common name.
  • This orchid grows as an epiphyte on oak trees in cloud forests at elevations of 5,000 to 8,000 feet.
  • It requires a distinct dry rest period in winter to trigger blooming the following season.
  • Despite its dramatic appearance, individual flowers can last up to three weeks on the plant.

Color meanings

0

magnificence

1

playfulness

2

exotic beauty

Uses

  • orchid collection
  • greenhouse specimen
  • show orchid