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Orchid Gallery

Tolumnia bahamensis

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Tolumnia bahamensis Introduction Vanda coerulea Stanhopea wardii Catasetum pileatum Tolumnia bahamensis Phalaenopsis Taisuco Kochidan Masdevallia ignea Brassia rex Himantoglossium hircinum Laelia purpurata Aerides odorata Spathoglottis plicata Schomburgkia splendida Dendrobium stratiotes Phragmepedium caudatum Coelogyne massangeana
 

This orchid grows only in a small, protected area of south Florida. It is closely related to the Bahamian orchid Tolumnia variegata, and scientists have pondered since it was discovered decades ago how it became established in Florida. Was it via wind- or bird-borne seed, or did Bahamian settlers bring the plants to Florida? Tolumnia bahamensis is epiphytic, meaning it grows on trees, and it has the small, delicate flowers common in the Oncidium genus.

 
     
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