Cochlioda
Related to Miltonia, Oncidium, and Odontoglossum, this charming mini species is an easy orchid. Cochlioda vulcanica is frequently used in hybridization, cross-bred with orchid relatives to pass on both its hardiness and its beauty.
It lives in tropical cloud forests at high elevations in the Andes, where it is pollinated by hummingbirds. The side view shows the long, narrow tube that perfectly accommodates their long, thin beaks.
This orchid needs cool temperatures year-round, high humidity, and strong air movement. They prefer to be potted in small pots. Dave’s macro lens shows incredible details. The dark area between the yellow spots is the hole where the hummingbird inserts its beak. In our garden, however, I think the hummingbirds prefer the Epidendrums.
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January 10th, 2009 at 7:14 pm
So many interesting orchid comes from the Andes Mountains. i have seen this one at an orchid show before but I did not know that hummingbirds pollinate it. you can really see how to flower is shaped to match the hummingbird beak.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:44 pm
totally tubular! thanx for the wonderful photos