Saturday, November 23, 2013

catasetum expansum

the name of catasetum expansum is derived from the latin name expansus, referring to the broad flattened shape of the lip.
this is perhaps the second most used species for hybridization after catasetum pileatum. the flowers has a broad flattened lip, with a prominent raised triangular callus that is just below the lip cavity. the coloration of this callus is mostly described as blood red but there are also some variation in the coloration.
the column of this flower is also held at an angle that is almost perpendicular to the lip. the coloration of this species varies greatly among individuals.