Guarianthe aurantiaca is a tropical epiphytic orchid that typically ranges from small to medium in size. It forms a cluster of upright, cane-like stems that arise from a short, creeping rhizome. The stems, known as pseudobulbs, are spindle-shaped, wider at the top, and support two glossy, evergreen leaves. These leaves are oval to elliptic, reaching lengths of up to 20 cm and widths of 5-8 cm. The pseudobulbs act as reservoirs for water and nutrients. In winter and spring, flowers emerge from the tips of mature pseudobulbs, enclosed in two green, papery sheaths. Each flowering spike may bear two to ten orange or yellow blooms, sometimes more, each measuring approximately 2.5 cm across, and lasting about two weeks.

This genus consists of a limited number of epiphytic orchids native to the humid forests of Mexico, Central America, Colombia, Venezuela, and Trinidad. The plants feature elongated, green leaves, and the flowers exhibit colors ranging from purple to white and pink.

Guarianthe aurantiaca

Guarianthe bowringiana is an epiphytic orchid that typically reaches a medium to large size. It features long, upright stems resembling cane, which can measure between 20 to 90 cm in height, all emerging from a short, creeping rhizome. The stems, known as pseudobulbs, have a cylindrical shape, becoming wider in the upper section, and usually bear two firm, dark green leaves at their apex, though occasionally three leaves may be present. These leaves are thick and leathery, with a mid-green hue, measuring up to 20 cm in length and 5 cm in width. The orchid produces clusters of up to 15 flowers on terminal stems that can grow to 25 cm long, blooming from autumn through winter at the tips of new mature growth. Each flower can reach up to 8 cm in diameter, displaying a dark pink to magenta coloration, accented by a darker lip and a white throat.

Guarianthe bowringiana

Guarianthe bowringiana 'Appleton's'

Guarianthe bowringiana 'Basil'

Guarianthe bowringiana 'Bromesberrow Place'

Guarianthe bowringiana 'Gigantea'

Guarianthe bowringiana 'Lady Wigan'

Guarianthe bowringiana 'Wild'

Guarianthe skinneri is a tropical epiphytic orchid that remains evergreen throughout the year. It forms clumps of upright stems, reaching heights of up to 50 cm, which arise from a short, creeping rhizome. These spindle-shaped stems, often called pseudobulbs, are wider at the top and serve as reservoirs for water and nutrients. Each pseudobulb typically supports a pair of firm, fleshy leaves that are opposite each other, oval-elliptic in shape, and can grow up to 20 cm long and 5 cm wide. From autumn to spring, flowering stems emerge from the tips of mature pseudobulbs, adorned with two green, papery sheaths. These stems bear between five and fifteen vibrant flowers, each measuring approximately 9 cm across. The blooms display shades of purple-pink, with some forms and varieties showcasing pale purple, pale pink, or pure white. Recognized as the national flower of Costa Rica, this orchid thrives in environments that mimic its native tropical habitat.