Leptotes
(pronounced: lep-TOH-teez)
Classification
Epidendreae subtribe Laeliinae
Overview
Caespitose to somewhat trailing epiphytes. Pseudobulbs terete, cylindric, short. Leaves one, semiterete, fleshy-rigid, with a central groove. Inflorescences terminal, one to few-flowered laxly pendent racemes. Flowers cupped. Sepals and petals subsimilar, subequal, free, spreading. Lip three-lobed, without callus or with low keels. Column short, with the clinandrial margin membranaceous; pollinia 6, four large and two small, sessile on a common minute viscidium.
Distribution
A genus of about 11 species native to Brazil and Paraguay.
Care and Culture Card
See basic growing conditions and care information below.
Although they may be grown in pots, Leptotes are shown to best advantage on small plaques. Grow them under intermediate to warm temperatures in full light. They should be watered frequently and allowed to become dry at the roots between watering.
Literature
Krackowizer, F. J. 1954. Monografia do Gênero Leptotes. Revista Circulo Paulista de Orquidófilos 11(3):43-72
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