Chaubardia
(pronounced: shaw-BAR-dee-ah)
Classification
Maxillarieae subtribe Zygopetalinae
Overview
Epiphytes +/- pseudobulbs, forming fan-shaped plants. Leaves several, alternate, distichous, oblanceolate, petiolate. Inflorescences axillary scapes, erect to laxly arching. Flowers fleshy. Sepals and petals free, spreading, subsimilar, subequal. Lip unlobed or obscurely three-lobed usually by lateral extension of the callus, clawed, the callus transverse, divided into numerous teeth or keels. Column stout, with a foot and conspicuous wings at the middle or below the apex; pollinia 4, sessile on a broad common viscidium.
Etymology
Dedicated to L. A. Chaubard, an early 18th century botanist who collected orchid specimens in Algeria and worked on the European flora.
Distribution
A genus of three species native to South America.
Care and Culture Card
See basic growing conditions and care information below.
Grow plants of Chaubardia in pots with a fine-grade epiphyte mixture that drains freely. Provide intermediate temperatures, medium light levels, regular watering throughout the year, and good air movement. Chaubardias, like other soft-leaved members of the Zygopetalum alliance, are prone to bacterial rots. The roots should be kept lightly moist and never full dry out for periods of time. However, care should be taken to avoid stagnant conditions or over-watering of the roots.
Literature
Bennett, D. E. and E. A. Christenson 1995. Icones Plantarum Peruviarum. Sarasota, FL.
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