Epidendrum ibaguense aka Crucifix Orchid

Epidendrum ibaguense is an evergreen perennial in the orchid family. Its common names include crucifix orchid and fiery reed orchid. It comes from tropical South America and Trinidad. Kew gives its range as Colombia to western Bolivia and Trinidad. It grows in wet tropical regions. In the wild, it can grow on exposed rocks. Its name refers to Ibagué, Colombia, near its first collection site.

Garden plants reach 2–4 feet (0.61–1.22 metres) tall. They spread 3–4 feet (0.91–1.22 metres) wide. Slender, upright canes give the plant its reed-like form. The green stems may branch and bear gray or brown sheaths. Aerial roots grow from points along the stems. The leaves are green, glossy, and tough, with smooth edges. They grow in an alternate pattern along the canes. Each strap-like leaf can reach about 0.33 feet (0.10 metres) long. The plant grows at a moderate rate and keeps its leaves year-round.

Long, bare flower stems carry clusters at their tips. Each cluster can hold 20–30 flowers. The blooms have a fringed inner lip shaped like a cross. This shape gives the crucifix orchid its common name. Flower colors include orange, red, pink, white, and yellow. In warm climates, flowering can last through most of the year. Butterflies visit the flowers, and the blooms suit cutting. Many cultivated plants are hybrids involving this and other species.

This orchid needs warmth, humidity, and strong light to grow well. Partial shade helps limit damage from too much direct sun. Use a fast-draining orchid mix when growing it in pots. Water weekly during warm months, then water less in cool months. Avoid standing water, but do not let it dry out fully. Established plants can cope with some drought. Feed it regularly while it flowers. Its listed USDA range is zones 10–12. It needs frost-free conditions but benefits from summer spells outdoors.

Grow it as a houseplant, container plant, or garden accent. In frost-free areas, it also serves as a bedding plant. Stem cuttings offer a way to make new plants. Excess water can cause root rot. Strong direct sun can turn leaves brown. Low light can cause lanky growth and fewer blooms. Scale insects, greenhouse thrips, and false spider mites can cause problems. ASPCA lists it as non-toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. This safety listing does not establish that it is edible.