Sometimes, like this time, it´s a big task to find the correct scientific name for an orchid or a tropical flower. The beautiful Trichoglottis atropurpurea Rchb.f. 1876, native to the Philippines, was such a case. In 1876 Heinrich Gustav Reichenbach categorised the orchid species as Trichoglottis atropurpurea, but in 1922 the American botanist Oak Ames changed the name in Trichoglottis brachiata. One will think the latest version of a scientific name will be the correct one, not so with the Trichoglottis atropurpurea, the name Trichoglottis brachiata, given by Oak Ames is just accepted as a synoym and the correct scientific name is still Trichoglottis atropurpurea Rchb.f. 1876.

The fragrant flowers of the epiphytc growing Trichoglottis atropurpurea reach a size up to about 6 cm in diameter. Flowering period: Spring - Summer. Trichoglottis atropurpurea (Trichoglottis brachiata) orchids are protected by CITES Appendix II (trade controlled to avoid use incompatible with species survival). The tropical orchid requires warm - hot temperatures and is best cultivated in light shade. With good care mature plants may reach a size of 1,50 meters and more.

Flower Photography © Orchids Flowers.com
Image: Trichoglottis atropurpurea Rchb.f. 1876,
synonym: Trichoglottis brachiata Ames 1922
Photographer: Kitisak “Nat” Jaidee

Flower Photography © Orchids Flowers.com
Image: Trichoglottis atropurpurea Rchb.f. 1876,
synonym: Trichoglottis brachiata Ames 1922
Photographer: Kitisak “Nat” Jaidee