Family: Orchidaceae
Author: Jacq.
Bibliography: Enum. Syst. Pl.: 29 (1760)
Year: 1760
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Epidendrum
Vegetable: False
Observations: S. Florida, Mexico to Trop. America
Description
The Night Scented Orchid, known scientifically as Epidendrum nocturnum, is a captivating species that has enchanted botanists and flower enthusiasts alike since its classification. First described by Jacquin in 1760, this mesmerizing orchid has become well-regarded not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its intriguing nocturnal fragrance.
This elegant member of the Orchidaceae family is native to a wide geographic range, from the southern tip of Florida, through Mexico and extending into tropical regions of Central and South America. Its adaptability to diverse habitats within these areas underscores its resilience and ecological versatility.
Epidendrum nocturnum distinguishes itself with its delicate blooms and a unique scent that intensifies at night, a characteristic that has led to its common name. The flowers typically exhibit a pristine white or pale coloration, which becomes more pronounced under the moonlight, adding to the plant’s ethereal essence. The nocturnal fragrance is not merely a trait to woo human admirers but serves an essential ecological function, attracting specific nighttime pollinators.
Growing naturally in both terrestrial and epiphytic environments, the Night Scented Orchid often finds residence on tree trunks and branches where it can access optimal light and air circulation. It prefers humid conditions and consistently warm temperatures, mirroring the tropical climates of its native distribution.
Botanically, this orchid forms slender, erect stems and bears leaves that are simple yet elegant, complementing its overall graceful appearance. The inflorescence structure is another highlight, typically presenting several flowers that sequentially open, thus extending the bloom period and prolonging the display of its captivating scent.
Cultivating Epidendrum nocturnum outside its native range can be rewarding for enthusiasts who can mimic its natural habitat. Essential care requirements include well-draining media, humidity, and protection from direct harsh sunlight, replicating the dappled light conditions of its typical forest homes.
The Night Scented Orchid is more than just a botanical specimen; it is a testament to the intricate beauty and sophistication inherent in nature’s design. Whether observed in its natural habitat or cultivated in a managed environment, this orchid continues to inspire and fascinate, making it a cherished plant among the diverse and sprawling Orchidaceae family.
Common Names
Spa: epidendrum nocturno, dama de noche
Eng: night scented orchid
Swe: nattepidendrum
En: Night scented orchid
Es: Epidendrum nocturno, Dama de noche
Sv: Nattepidendrum
Synonyms
- Epidendrum obtusifolium (Willd.)
- Epidendrum bahiense (Rchb.f.)
- Nyctosma nocturna ((Jacq.) Raf.)
- Auliza nocturna ((Jacq.) Small)
- Epidendrum carolinianum (Lam.)
- Amphiglottis nocturna ((Jacq.) Britton)
- Epidendrum leucarachne (Schltr.)
- Epidendrum nocturnum var. angustifolium (Stehlé)
- Epidendrum nocturnum var. minor (Schltr.)
Distribution
- Bahamas (native)
- Belize (native)
- Bolivia (native)
- Brazil North (native)
- Brazil Northeast (native)
- Brazil South (native)
- Brazil Southeast (native)
- Brazil West-Central (native)
- Cayman Is. (native)
- Colombia (native)
- Costa Rica (native)
- Cuba (native)
- Dominican Republic (native)
- Ecuador (native)
- El Salvador (native)
- Florida (native)
- French Guiana (native)
- Guatemala (native)
- Guyana (native)
- Haiti (native)
- Honduras (native)
- Jamaica (native)
- Leeward Is. (native)
- Mexico Gulf (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Southeast (native)
- Mexico Southwest (native)
- Nicaragua (native)
- Panamá (native)
- Peru (native)
- Puerto Rico (native)
- Suriname (native)
- Trinidad-Tobago (native)
- Venezuela (native)
- Venezuelan Antilles (native)
- Windward Is. (native)
- Hawaii (introduced)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Oct 12, 2021 by Gabriel Ollivier (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 26, 2021 by Théo Lepilleur (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 12, 2021 by Gabriel Ollivier (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 9, 2019 by Carneiro Tiago (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 14, 2019 by Montenegro Bismarck (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Feb 9, 2021 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 2, 2019 by Carneiro Tiago (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 3, 2019 by Venegas-Elizondo Carlos (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 21, 2021 by Fonseca Gabriela (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 1, 2022 by Steven Matute Obando (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Oct 10, 2013 by Tela Botanica − Philippe FELDMANN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Hans Hillewaert (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 12, 2021 by Gabriel Ollivier (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − João Medeiros (cc-by)
© 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.
Fruit
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – R. Aguilar (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – R. Aguilar (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – R. Aguilar (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – R. Aguilar (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – O. Vargas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Other
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – R. Aguilar (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – R. Aguilar (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – O. Vargas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – O. Vargas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – O. Vargas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Bark
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – R. Aguilar (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – R. Aguilar (cc-by-nc-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5320021)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30010607-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Epidendrum nocturnum Jacq.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb
