Leptotes bicolor

Leptotes bicolor is a species of orchid native to Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Argentina. It is commonly known as the Two-colored Leptotes or Brazilian Orchid and is a member of the Orchidaceae family.

Description

The Leptotes bicolor is a small-sized, cool to warm-growing epiphyte that prefers bright light and intermediate to warm temperatures. It has an erect, slender stem enveloped by leaf-bearing sheaths and carrying oblong, leathery leaves. The plant blooms in the spring and summer on a short, single-flowered inflorescence carrying fragrant flowers. The flowers are white with a purple-pink lip, giving the plant its bicolor name.

Habitat and Distribution

Leptotes bicolor is found in the coastal mountains of southeastern Brazil, in the states of Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, and Santa Catarina. It grows in the cool, moist, shady understory of Atlantic Forest at elevations of 500 to 1,500 meters. The species has also been reported in Paraguay, Uruguay, and Argentina.

Cultivation

Cultivation of Leptotes bicolor requires specific conditions to mimic its natural habitat. It prefers cool to intermediate temperatures, high humidity, and bright but indirect light. The plant should be watered regularly during the growing season, but allowed to dry out between waterings. It can be grown in a small pot with bark or sphagnum moss, or mounted on tree fern or cork.

Conservation Status

The Leptotes bicolor is not currently listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. However, like many orchids, it is threatened by habitat loss due to deforestation and urbanization in its native range.

References

• Pridgeon, A.M., Cribb, P.J., Chase, M.C. & Rasmussen, F.N. (2009). Epidendroideae (Part two). Genera Orchidacearum 5: 1-585. Oxford University Press, New York, Oxford.
• Zappi, D.C. et al. (2003). Lista das plantas vasculares de Catoles. Boletim de Botânica 21: 345-398.