Encyclia tampensis aka Florida Butterfly Orchid

Encyclia tampensis, also known as the Tampa butterfly orchid, is a species of flowering plant in the orchid family, subfamily Epidendroideae. Its name is derived from the Greek word "enkykleoma," meaning "to encircle," and "tampensis," which refers to its native habitat of Tampa, Florida. It was first described by John Torrey in 1847. Encyclia orchids, also called cockleshell orchids, thrive when planted on an orchid mount to simulate the epiphytic growing conditions of the wild. The encyclia orchid can bloom for several consecutive months, although it is not fragrant. Some horticulturists compare the encyclia orchid to an octopus due to its dangling petals and sepals. This species has foliage and growth characteristics similar to Cattleya species, and the flower spike grows from the top of the pseudobulb. Encyclia orchids vary in size and growth habits, ranging from truly epiphytic to occasionally terrestrial. They may have small or large onion-like pseudobulbs and underground roots that produce new plants. The largest flower of any Encyclia species is 4 cm. Some species have strikingly beautiful flowers, while others have unremarkable or insignificant ones. The butterfly orchid is native to Florida and the Bahamas. It is a beautiful and unique addition to any orchid collection, with its delicate appearance and intriguing growth habits.