elleanthus

When not in bloom ,orchids of the genus Elleanthus slightly resemble Sobralia orchids-they have thin and stiff,reed -like stems covered with two raws of length -wise -grooved ,pergameneous leaves.In contrast ,the flowers are tiny and form more or less crowded inflorescences with many flowers. 70 species of terrestrial and epiphytic orchids of this genus occur in the tropical areas of America .Most species(50) are reported to grow in Colombia . The plants are not very attractive for culture ; those interested in growing Elleanthus orchids should use flowerpots with light humic substrate. The species in the photo(possibly E. sphaerocephalus) measures 24 in /60 cm across and has showy umbellate inflorescences colored in shiny purple. It blooms irregularly (most oftern in the winter).It was discovered in the Pululahua Crater in Ecuador.