Myrmecophila tibicinis (Schomburgkia tibicinis)

Myrmecophila tibicinis , also known as trumpeter orchid , is a species of epiphytic orchid, native to the tropical regions of Central America and northern South America, such as Mexico, Belize, and Honduras.

Habitat : This orchid lives in tropical areas, usually growing on tree branches, where it benefits from good air circulation and filtered sunlight. It is an epiphyte, which means it attaches itself to trees without taking their nutrients.

Relationship with ants : The name "Myrmecophila" comes from its symbiotic relationship with ants (in Greek, "myrmex" means ant). In the large and empty pseudobulbs of the plant, ants can make a nest, thus protecting the plant from pests in exchange for a shelter.

Appearance : Myrmecophila tibicinis has large and thick pseudobulbs, from which long and thin leaves grow. The flowers are spectacular, usually yellow-green or purple, with long thin petals. The flowers are grouped in large inflorescences, which can reach impressive lengths, even 1-2 meters.

Flowers and flowering : Its flowers have a tubular shape, hence the name "trumpet orchid". Flowering usually occurs during the summer, and the flowers are fragrant and attractive to pollinators. The variability of the flowers is also extraordinary - their color varies from orange to shades of pink or purple, being most probably influenced by the season and/or growing conditions.

Growing and care : This orchid prefers a warm climate, with high humidity and strong indirect light. Being an epiphyte, it needs a well-ventilated substrate. See the care guide here

Myrmecophila tibicinis is a special plant and appreciated by orchid lovers, being famous both for its spectacular flowers and for its interesting relationship with ants.

The flowers of this species naturally show color variations.

Flower size: 5-7.5 cm

Fragrant flowers: YES

Synonyms: Bletia tibicinis, Cattleya tibicinis, Epidendrum tibicinis, Laelia tibicinis, Schomburgkia brysiana var. intermedia, Schomburgkia campecheana, Schomburgkia intermedia, Schomburgkia tibicinis

Height with pots included: approx. 20 cm

Important: Plants imported from Thailand, with a reduced root system (partially cut roots) in order to be imported. They were replanted in our greenhouse and treated with rooting hormones - they will generate new roots in time. Complaints regarding the condition of the roots will not be accepted.