PlantaeHighest rank in taxonomy. Groups all life into domains: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, etc.IUCN LCInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — the world authority on species extinction risk, using standardized criteria. — Least Concern — widespread and abundant; not at immediate risk of extinction.In ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow. Recent Sighting
Epidendrum ibaguense
Crucifix Orchid
Kunth
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
A tough, reed-like terrestrial orchid that grows in dense clumps. It features long, slender, cane-like stems covered in alternating leathery green leaves, topped by dense, spherical clusters of small, brightly colored flowers usually ranging from red and orange to yellow.
Added by
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.Epidendrum
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.Kunth
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.
Stable
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 Central and South America, it thrives in open, sun-drenched environments. It is frequently found growing terrestrially or lithophytic on rocky slopes, roadside banks, savanna edges, and disturbed areas at low to middle elevations.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
It is a highly opportunistic, fast-growing plant that blooms throughout most of the year. It uses food-deceptive pollination, tricking butterflies and hummingbirds into visiting its bright flowers with the promise of nectar, though it produces none.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)
60.0 - 150.0 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 a highly resilient root system with velamen that efficiently absorbs moisture and nutrients from the air or shallow substrate, allowing it to survive on bare rock and poor soils.
The tough, leathery texture of its leaves minimizes water loss through transpiration, enabling the plant to endure prolonged exposure to direct, intense sunlight.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
While not globally threatened due to its adaptability, local populations face pressure from habitat destruction caused by intensive agriculture and urbanization.
Over-collection from the wild for ornamental trade, although it is widely and easily propagated in nurseries and gardens.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
The common name 'Crucifix Orchid' comes from the distinctive shape of the flower's lip (labellum), which closely resembles a small cross or crucifix.
This species frequently produces 'keikis'—exact clone plantlets that develop along the mature flower spikes, allowing the plant to easily propagate vegetatively.