Catasetum pileatum var. album (Linden & Rodigas) Hoehne 1942 is a large sized, sexually dimorphic orchid species, native to Venezuela, Colombia and Ecuador.

Sexually dimorphic means, male and female flowers show significant differences. The impressive, epiphytic growing Catasetum pileatum Rchb.f. 1882 blooms on an erect or pendant inflorescent, which get a length of about 30 cm and carry up to about 12 flowers. The highly fragrant flowers get a size of about 13 cm across. Flowering season: Spring - Autumn. Leaves of this big sized orchid species can reach lengths up to 40 cm. Our picture below shows the male flower of the albino form Catasetum pileatum var. album, female flowers are so different, but not less attractive, in their flower form, that in the past botanists thought it must be another orchid species. The tropical orchid requires a warm to hot, humid climate. Watering should be reduced during a short winter rest, which starts, when the plant drops its leaves. Some cultivated plants may not be in need of a dormancy and will not drop its laeves. In that case, watering don`t have to be restricted. Catasetum pileatum orchids are protected by CITES Appendix II (trade controlled to avoid use incompatible with species survival).

Flower Photography © Orchids Flowers.com
Image: Catasetum pileatum var. album (Linden & Rodigas) Hoehne 1942 (male flower)

Catasetum species orchids at Orchids Flowers.com: