Den. Sec. Cuthbertsonia

Schltr.

Pronunciation:

cuth-bert-SEWN-e-uh

Tribe: Epidendreae
Subtribe: Dendrobiinae

Species in this Section are included by some taxonomists in Section Oxyglossum and are similar in appearance to Section Calyptrochilus, but with shorter stems. Species may be identified by upturned sidelobes of the lip, which is blunt at the apex. The small plants have short, thick pseudobulbs and few leaves at the apex. Flowers are large for the plant size and long-lasting. Colors are variable and bright with one to two flowers on each inflorescence. The species grow in cooler climates at generally higher alpine habitats where they are exposed to strong air movement and do not tolorate lowland, tropical conditions. Den. laevifolium and Den. prasinum are a little more warmth tolerant than the popular Den. cuthbertsonii, but all species in this section are intolerant of long, hot, dry conditions.

Regarding culture: The data in the table below are averages for the more common species listed herein. For growing data for specific species, literature, such as Reference 1& 2, are recommended.

Derivation: Named for W. R. Cuthbertson, an Australian surveyor who organized expeditions to New Guinea circa 1880's.