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
Pleurothallis ruscifolia
Ruscus-leaved Pleurothallis
(Jacq.) R.Br.
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
A widespread, medium-sized epiphytic orchid characterized by clustering, slender ramicauls (stems) that completely lack pseudobulbs. Each stem terminates in a single, leathery, dark-green leaf, from the base of which emerges a dense cluster of small, translucent, pale yellow to greenish-white flowers.
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Under Review
Other Names (Global)Regional and multilingual names used for this species across different countries and languages.
Orquídea de hojaRuscus-leaved PleurothallisPleurothallis con hoja de Rusco
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.Pleurothallis
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.(Jacq.) R.Br.
Record Completeness
84%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
Extensively distributed across the Neotropics, including the Caribbean, Central America, and northern South America. It thrives as an epiphyte or occasional lithophyte in wet tropical montane and cloud forests at altitudes between 300 and 2000 meters, preferring constant air flow and filtered shade on mossy surfaces.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
Grows tightly anchored to the bark of intermediate-tier canopy trees. It remains completely static, obtaining critical moisture from heavy dew and structural condensation collected along its smooth leaves.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)
15.0 - 35.0 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
Developed structural ramicauls capped with thick, rigid leaves that reduce evapotranspiration, allowing the plant to store small volumes of moisture without typical pseudobulbs.
Produces tiny, structurally specialized flowers that gather in dense fasicles, relying on subtle, localized chemical signals rather than visual size to attract pollinators.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Widespread habitat destruction and clear-cutting logging across Central and South American understories, which decimates the native canopy hosts.
Drying trend in lower tropical cloud lines caused by large-scale regional climate shifts, disrupting the uninterrupted humidity necessary for host root systems.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
Unlike many orchids that develop single, long-lasting flowers, this species produces a high frequency of overlapping, successive flower clusters throughout the year directly on the leaf surface.