Cypress-Knee Helmet Orchid

Cranichis muscosa

Native to:
Bahamas, Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, French Guiana, Guatemala, Haiti, Jamaica, Leeward Is., Mexico, Panamá, Peru, Puerto Rico, Trinidad-Tobago, United States, Windward Is.

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Orchidaceae
Genus:
Cranichis
Species:
Cranichis muscosa
USDA Symbol:
CRMU3

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb
Height:
30 cm
Light Requirements:
Part Shade
Drought Tolerance:
Low
Bloom Months:
jan,feb,oct,nov,dec
Bloom Colors:
white, green

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rich, well-drained loamy soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
consistently moist
Notes:
prefers forest understory conditions

Propagation & Germination

Notes:
Orchid seeds require mycorrhizal fungi for germination; propagation from seed is extremely difficult without specialized laboratory conditions.