Costa Rica Species
Guarianthe skinneri
PlantaeHighest rank in taxonomy. Groups all life into domains: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, etc.IUCN VUInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — the world authority on species extinction risk, using standardized criteria. — Vulnerable — at high risk of extinction if the current adverse conditions continue.In ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow. Recent Sighting

Guarianthe skinneri

Skinner's orchid

(Bateman) Dressler & W.E.Higgins, 2003

Detailed Texts Multi-lang
Epiphytic orchid with thickened pseudobulbs and vibrant purple flowers featuring a prominent lip.

Added by

Anonymous Curator

Reviewed by

Under Review

Last modified by

Julia Trouin

Other Names (Global)Regional and multilingual names used for this species across different countries and languages.

Cattleya skinneriFlor de San SebastiánEaster orchidGuaria

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.Guarianthe
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.(Bateman) Dressler & W.E.Higgins, 2003
Record Completeness
93%
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.

Decreasing

Trophic RolePosition in the food chain: producer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, decomposer, or parasite.

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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.

Dry 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

Inhabits humid and premontane forests, growing on tree branches or occasionally rocks.

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

Perennial plant that blooms mainly between January and March; depends on specific pollinators.

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)

20.0 - 50.0 cm

Reproductive StructuresFlowers, fruits, and seeds — the reproductive organs and their seasonal appearance.

Flower Photos (Max 2)

No image

Fruit Photos (Max 2)

No image

Evolutionary AdaptationsInherited traits and behaviors that improve the species' survival and reproduction in its specific environment. Multi-lang

Pseudobulbs that store water and nutrients to survive the dry season.
Roots coated with velamen, a spongy tissue that absorbs water directly from ambient humidity.

Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang

Illegal extraction from the wild for ornamental trade.
Loss of host trees due to deforestation and climate change.

Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang

It was declared the National Flower of Costa Rica on June 15, 1939.
Traditionally used to adorn church altars during Lent.

External ReferencesScientific publications, field guides, and databases that document this species or area.