What is "zygopetalum"

n. Any of the genus (taxlink Zygopetalum genus noshow=1) of South American orchids.

Zygopetalum ( Hook. 1833) is a genus of the orchid family ( Orchidaceae) (subfamily Epidendroideae, tribe Maxillarieae, subtribe Zygopetalinae), consisting of fourteen currently recognized species.

This orchid's generic name, derived from the Greek word zygon, means "yoked petal". It refers to the yoke-like growth at the base of the lip caused by the fusion of petals and the sepals.

They occur in humid forests at low- to mid-elevation regions of South America, with most species in Brazil.

Most are epiphytes, but some are terrestrials with glossy, strap-like, plicate leaves, which are apical, oblong or elliptic-lanceolate, acute or acuminate. These orchids have a robust growth form. Their ovoid-conical pseudobulbs are deciduous.

They produce an erect, 60-centimeter-long, few-flowered to several-flowered, racemose inflorescence that grows laterally and is longer than the leaves. Their prominent bracts equal the length of the ovary. They are known for their fragrant, waxy, and long-lived flowers with multiple blooms in shades of green, purple, burgundy, and raspberry with several patterns.

They are known for their ease of culture and are much in demand as excellent cut flowers.