Family: Orchidaceae
Author: Pav. ex Lindl.
Bibliography: Gen. Sp. Orchid. Pl.: 104 (1831)
Year: 1831
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Epidendrum
Vegetable: False
Observations: Mexico to Colombia
Description
Deep within the enchanting world of orchids, the Fire Star Orchid stands out with its vivid beauty and wide-ranging habitat. Scientifically recognized as Epidendrum radicans, this remarkable species of orchid graced the botanical world with its presence as early as 1831, according to its classification in the authoritative “Gen. Sp. Orchid. Pl.: 104.” Particularly credited to Pav. ex Lindl., this botanical marvel belongs to the expansive and diverse Orchidaceae family.
The Fire Star Orchid captivates enthusiasts with its striking floral arrangements, often radiating a vibrant blend of fiery oranges and reds that echo the brilliance of its namesake. Each bloom seems to burst forth like a star, igniting the surroundings with its color and vitality. But the allure of Epidendrum radicans transcends its aesthetic appeal; the orchid exhibits a remarkable adaptability to various environments.
Native to a broad geographic range stretching from Mexico down to Colombia, this orchid demonstrates a high degree of versatility. It thrives in diverse conditions found throughout its range, from semi-arid regions to lush rainforests, showcasing its resilience and capacity to adapt. Such ecological adaptability makes it an excellent candidate for both natural propagation and horticultural cultivation.
Epidendrum radicans is not just a pretty face; it plays a pivotal role in its native habitat’s ecosystem. The flowers often attract a variety of pollinators, including butterflies and bees, thus facilitating cross-pollination and contributing to the biodiversity of its environment. In addition, the plant’s roots often form symbiotic relationships with fungi, enhancing nutrient absorption and further underscoring its ecological significance.
Gardeners and orchid enthusiasts favor the Fire Star Orchid for its durability and relatively simple care requirements compared to other orchids. It thrives in well-drained soil with moderate watering and benefits from bright, indirect sunlight to replicate its natural habitat. When cultivated with care, it rewards growers with spectacular blooms, bringing a piece of tropical paradise into domestic spaces.
In summary, the Fire Star Orchid, or Epidendrum radicans, with its blazing beauty and widespread native range from Mexico to Colombia, represents both a horticultural jewel and an ecological cornerstone in the Orchidaceae family. Its historical recognition, broad adaptability, and ecological contributions make it a fascinating subject of study and a beloved addition to gardens worldwide.
Common Names
Spa: epidendrum de los caminos
Eng: fire star orchid, crucifix orchid
Por: estrela-de-fogo, pássaro-de-fogo
En: Fire star orchid, Crucifix Orchid
Zh: 蘆莖樹蘭
Pt: Estrela-de-fogo, Pássaro-de-fogo
Es: Epidendrum de los caminos
Synonyms
- Epidendrum radicans var. chiriquense (Schltr.)
- Epidendrum pratense (Rchb.f.)
- Epidendrum rhizophorum (Bateman ex Lindl.)
Distribution
- Colombia (native)
- Costa Rica (native)
- El Salvador (native)
- Guatemala (native)
- Honduras (native)
- Mexico Central (native)
- Mexico Gulf (native)
- Mexico Southeast (native)
- Mexico Southwest (native)
- Nicaragua (native)
- Panamá (native)
- Venezuela (native)
- Cuba (introduced)
- Puerto Rico (introduced)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Oct 10, 2019 by Villalobos Jovel (cc-by-sa)
Taken Dec 26, 2021 by Chaverri Angie (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 30, 2021 by Théo Lepilleur (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 28, 2020 by Nat L (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 25, 2017 by vini (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Jun 23, 2020 by santana carmen (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 23, 2019 by Castro Adriana (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 4, 2022 by SINAC Pérez Greivin (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 31, 2021 by Fabienne Gougeon (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 16, 2021 by Manuel Antonio Alfaro Alpízar (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Mar 20, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Daniel H. Janzen (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Oct 21, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Hugo SANTACREU (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 21, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Hugo SANTACREU (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 4, 2022 by SINAC Pérez Greivin (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Feb 22, 2022 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 19, 2021 by Shehadi Ramiz (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 24, 2016 by Pierre Bonnet (cc-by-nc)
Taken Oct 24, 2016 by Pierre Bonnet (cc-by-nc)
Habit
Taken Feb 22, 2022 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 23, 2017 by Hugo SANTACREU (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 21, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Hugo SANTACREU (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 24, 2016 by Pierre Bonnet (cc-by-nc)
Taken Nov 25, 2017 by vini (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Apr 12, 2013 by OTS – Oviedo-Brenes, Federico (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 12, 2013 by OTS – Oviedo-Brenes, Federico (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 12, 2013 by OTS – Oviedo-Brenes, Federico (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Mar 26, 2022 by Annemarie Ahrens-Stehle (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:632612-1)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5320619)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Epidendrum radicans Pav. ex Lindl.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb
