maxillariamaxillaria
genusgenusThis is a very large and diverse genus of orchids found throughout tropical and subtropical America, growing in a variety of habitats including on trees, rocks, or the ground. Most plants feature prominent swollen stems called pseudobulbs and typically produce single flowers from their base.
Etymology
The name originates from the Latin word 'maxilla', which means 'jawbone', referring to the shape of the lip and column structure within the flower.
Interesting fact!
Despite the wide range of sizes and shapes among the flowers, they all share a unique structure that reminded the original describers of a jawbone.
