PlantaeHighest rank in taxonomy. Groups all life into domains: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, etc.IUCN NEInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — the world authority on species extinction risk, using standardized criteria. — Not Evaluated — not yet assessed against the IUCN Red List criteria.In ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow. Recent Sighting
Miltoniopsis roezlii
Pansy Orchid
(W.Bull) God.-Leb.
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
An epiphytic orchid species characterized by clustered, flattened ovoid pseudobulbs, each bearing a single pale green, linear-lanceolate leaf. The inflorescence produces highly fragrant, large white flowers distinctively marked with purple-red blotches at the base of the petals and a yellow callus.
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Anonymous Curator
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Under Review
Last modified by
Julia Trouin
TaxonomyBiological classification ranks placing this species within the tree of life, from Kingdom down to Genus.
PhylumRank below Kingdom. Groups organisms sharing a fundamental body plan (e.g., Chordata = vertebrates and some invertebrates).Tracheophyta
ClassRank below Phylum. Subdivides by structural traits (e.g., Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Insecta).Liliopsida
OrderRank below Class. Groups related families sharing common ancestry (e.g., Carnivora, Primates).Asparagales
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Orchidaceae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Miltoniopsis
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.(W.Bull) God.-Leb.
Record Completeness
85%Coming soon
Ecology & StatusHow this species lives: habitat preferences, diet, behavior, population status, and role in its ecosystem.
OriginWhether the species is native (evolved here), endemic (found only here), or introduced by human activity.
Native
Population TrendDirection of change in population size over time: increasing, stable, decreasing, or unknown.
Unknown
Trophic RolePosition in the food chain: producer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, decomposer, or parasite.
Herbivore
Growth HabitPhysical form and structure of the plant: tree, shrub, herb, vine, epiphyte, aquatic, etc.
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Leaf TypeLeaf characteristics: deciduous (seasonal shed), evergreen, simple, compound, needle-like, etc.
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Flowering SeasonTime of year when this species typically reproduces or flowers.
Year Round
Recent SightingsWhether this species has been observed in the wild in Costa Rica within recent years.
Yes
Habitat SummaryOverview of the specific ecosystems and environments where this species is found in Costa Rica. Multi-lang
Native to the wet, warm-to-intermediate tropical forests of Colombia, Panama, and Ecuador. It grows primarily as an epiphyte on moss-covered tree trunks and branches in deeply shaded, high-humidity river valleys at elevations between 300 and 1000 meters.Light & Water NeedsSunlight intensity and moisture levels this plant needs to grow and reproduce successfully. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!BehaviourDaily activity patterns, movement, territory use, foraging style, and seasonal behavioral changes. Multi-lang
As an epiphyte, it lives anchored to trees without parasitizing them. It relies on ambient rain, high atmospheric humidity, and air currents to absorb nutrients through its specialized velamen-covered roots.Toxicity / UsesToxic compounds present and their documented effects on humans or other organisms. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!Physical Measures
Length (cm)
25.0 - 40.0 cm
Reproductive StructuresFlowers, fruits, and seeds — the reproductive organs and their seasonal appearance.
Flower Photos (Max 2)
No imageFruit Photos (Max 2)
No imageEvolutionary AdaptationsInherited traits and behaviors that improve the species' survival and reproduction in its specific environment. Multi-lang
Possesses pseudobulbs that store water and nutrients, allowing the plant to survive short temporary dry periods despite lacking thick leaves.
Emits a powerful, sweet fragrance reminiscent of roses to attract specific insect pollinators within the dense, shaded forest understory.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Over-collection from the wild for the international commercial orchid trade due to its highly attractive and uniquely patterned pansy-like flowers.
Severe habitat fragmentation caused by deforestation, agricultural expansion, and logging within its specific lowland Andean cloud forest zones.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
This species is notable as one of the key warm-tolerant ancestral parents used extensively in artificial hybridization to create modern commercial Miltoniopsis hybrids.