Stanhopea guttulata

[Frdemetr]

Stanhopea guttulata is probably extinct in the wild; only isolated specimen can still be found (only in the state of Rio de Janeiro), but these orchids do not make a self-sustaining population. In the past it was mainly found in the state of the Espírito Santo ("Holy Spirit"), but today that Brazilian state has only 7% (seven percent!) of its original vegetation, almost complete destruction of one of the Brazilian richest biomes (home of Laelia tenebrosa, many Stanhopea and Bifrenaria, among many others). Today the state of Espírito Santo is a huge plantation of poor quality coffee (Coffea robusta). But in the "7%", many new species are still found !
Stan guttulata has a unique scent of "Vicks Vaporub"!

[SP2340]

Beautiful, and thank you for the history!

[isurus79]

That is a stunner Fred. You also give one more great reason to buy species plants: preservation of many species is going on in home collections. Even if the habitat is completely wiped out, one day we may be able to introduce plants back into a restored version of the original habitat from plants like yours Fred!

[smweaver]

Frederico, those blooms are outstanding, although it's utterly depressing to read stories like the one you provided about the destruction of the natural habitat for this (and many other) species. And it makes me think that the Latin name for our species is something of a misnomer.

Steve

[Frdemetr]

Hi friends!

I intend to selfing my Stan guttulata soon (its a small plant yet) - at least its preservation among orchid lovers will be assure, but is a pity that guttulata can repeat the sad fate of Laelia fidelensis - preserved, but completely eliminated from nature!