Epidendrum rigidum facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Epidendrum rigidum |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Epidendrum
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| Species: |
rigidum
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| Synonyms | |
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Epidendrum pium Rchb.f. & Warm. |
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The Epidendrum rigidum is a type of orchid that grows on other plants. It is called an epiphyte because it doesn't grow in soil. Instead, it attaches to trees or rocks. This orchid is common in warm, tropical areas of the Americas. You can find it in lowlands, usually below 600 meters (about 2,000 feet) in height.
About the Epidendrum rigidum Orchid
This orchid has stems that look like reeds. They do not have thick, round parts called pseudobulbs. The stems are covered by the bottom parts of its leaves. These leaves grow in two rows along the stem.
The lower parts of the stems connect to form a creeping root system. This system helps the plant spread out. The upper parts of the stems can grow up to 20 centimeters (about 8 inches) long. They can grow straight up, sideways, or even hang down.
Leaves and Flowers
The leaves of the Epidendrum rigidum are tough and feel a bit like leather. They are shaped like an oval and are usually 3 to 8 centimeters (about 1 to 3 inches) long. The tip of each leaf is slightly split into two parts.
The flowers grow in a cluster at the top of the stem. They are green and feel a bit fleshy. Large, leaf-like structures called bracts partly cover the flowers. These bracts are shaped like an axe head.
The sepals, which are like the outer leaves of the flower, are about 5 millimeters long. The side sepals are a bit bigger than the top one. The petals are thin and also about 5 millimeters long.
Like other Epidendrum orchids, the special lower petal, called the lip, is joined to the central part of the flower (the column) all the way to its tip. The lip is heart-shaped where it connects to the column. It is oval and has a rounded tip.
Chromosome Count
Scientists have studied the Epidendrum rigidum orchid's chromosomes. These are tiny structures inside cells that carry genetic information. The E. rigidum orchid has 40 chromosomes in its normal body cells. This is known as a diploid number of 2n = 40.
Images for kids
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A close-up view of the Epidendrum rigidum orchid.
