Catasetum macrocarpum Rich. ex Kunth
Epiphytic orchid with oblong pseudo-bulbs, to 20cm long, plicate leaves, to 45cm long, and variable flowers, usually green to yellow, spotted with brown or purple. [RHSD, Hortus].
Horticultural & Botanical History
‘Catasetum is a very splendid genus of plants, belonging to the natural order of Orchidae, a family, of which a larger number has been in our garden since their cultivation has been better understood, than, till of late years, was supposed possible. […] Our drawing was taken at the Chelsea Botanic Garden, in September 1824. Native of the island of Trinidad, and sent from thence to Mr. Anderson, by his excellency Sir Ralph J. Woodford, the Governor.’ [BM t.2559/1825].
History at Camden Park
Catasetum tridentatum was included in a consignment of plants sent from Kew by John Bidwill in November 1843 [AJCP]. It seems likely that these plants were forwarded to William Macarthur at Camden but there is no direct evidence of this plant being grown there.
Notes
Published Jan 27, 2010 - 02:44 PM | Last updated Jan 27, 2010 - 02:50 PM
Family | Orchidaceae |
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Category | |
Region of origin | Tropical America |
Synonyms |
|
Common Name | |
Name in the Camden Park Record |
Catasetum tridentatum |
Confidence level | high |