Paphinia is a small genus of epiphytic orchids in the family Orchidaceae (order Asparagales), comprising an estimated 16 accepted species. Members are native to tropical Central America, northern South America, and Trinidad, where they grow perched on trees in humid forest habitats.
Plants are medium-sized epiphytes characterised by small, ovoid pseudobulbs that are typically clustered, each bearing two or more leaves. The genus is noted for its showy, often pendulous flowers, which have made it a subject of interest among orchid growers. Most authorities regard Paphinia as rare in both wild populations and cultivation.
The genus is abbreviated Pna in the horticultural trade. Notable species include Paphinia cristata, the most widely distributed member, ranging from Trinidad through Colombia, Venezuela, the Guianas, and northern Brazil; Paphinia grandiflora of northern Brazil; and several Ecuadorian endemics such as Paphinia neudeckeri and Paphinia posadarum. Registered intergeneric hybrids include × Gonginia (with Gongora).
Etymology
The genus name Paphinia derives from the Greek Paphia, an epithet of Aphrodite associated with the ancient city of Paphos on Cyprus. The abbreviation used in the horticultural trade is Pna.
Distribution
Paphinia species occur across Central America (Costa Rica, Panama) and northern South America (Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, the Guianas, northern Brazil), with one species, P. cristata, also recorded from Trinidad. Several species are restricted to Ecuador.
