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
Prosthechea prismatocarpa
Prism-shaped Prosthechea
(Rchb.f.) W.E.Higgins, 1998
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
A highly celebrated epiphytic orchid known for its large, robust pseudobulbs and spectacular, erect flower spikes. The long-lasting blooms are creamy-yellow to greenish-tan, boldly patterned with prominent, dark purple or near-black blotches. This contrasts sharply with a bright, rose-pink to magenta lip that tapers into a sharp point. Its species name refers to the distinctive three-sided, prism-like shape of its seed capsules.
Added by
Anonymous Curator
Reviewed by
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.Prosthechea
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.(Rchb.f.) W.E.Higgins, 1998
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.
--
Leaf TypeLeaf characteristics: deciduous (seasonal shed), evergreen, simple, compound, needle-like, etc.
--
Flowering SeasonTime of year when this species typically reproduces or flowers.
Wet Season
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 montane cloud forests of Costa Rica and western Panama. It thrives in high-humidity, cool-temperature environments on the moss-covered trunks and larger branches of upper-canopy mature forest trees, generally found at elevations between 1,200 and 2,500 meters above sea level.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 autotrophic plant, it produces energy using sunlight filtered through the cloud forest canopy. It grows mostly during the rainy season, storing resources in its pseudobulbs, and exhibits an impressive blooming period during late spring and early summer. It stays anchored permanently in place on its host trees.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 - 50.0 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
Features large, tightly packed, ovoid pseudobulbs capable of storing substantial reserves of water and starches, helping the plant bridge short temporary dry periods when montane cloud mist clears.
Its leathery, structural dual leaves emerging from each pseudobulb are coated in a thick, waxy cuticle designed to lower evapotranspiration and resist damage from constant exposure to strong montane winds.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Severely threatened by microclimate warming and logging of cloud forests, which destroys old-growth host trees. Its exceptional beauty makes it a prime target for illegal extraction by domestic and international orchid collectors.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
The flowers are mildly fragrant during daytime hours, putting forth a subtle, clean scent to coordinate with the activity patterns of day-active pollinators, unlike many nocturnal species.