Catasetum viridi-flavum Hook.
Epiphytic orchid with oblong pseudo-bulbs, to 12cm long, striate leaves, to 30cm long, and up to 12-flowered spikes of yellow-green flowers. [RHSD, Hortus].
Horticultural & Botanical History
‘Every district of tropical South America seems to afford a Catasetum, different from what is found in other places; but how far these are to be defined as specifically distinct it is not easy to say. The present quite unlike in the general appearance of its flowers any other known to us, is yet with difficulty to be distinguished in words. It was discovered by Mr. Barclay while employed as Government Botanist on the Pacific side of South America, in H. M. surveying Ship.’ [BM t.4017/1843].
History at Camden Park
Catasetum virid-flavum 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 - 02:51 PM | Last updated Jan 27, 2010 - 02:56 PM
Catasetum viridiflavum Hook. | BM t.4017/1843 | BHL
| Family | Orchidaceae |
|---|---|
| Category | |
| Region of origin | Central America |
| Synonyms | |
| Common Name | |
| Name in the Camden Park Record |
Catasetum viridi-flavum |
| Confidence level | high |
