Colombia Orchid 7
 

What might this be?

Epidendrum. In the New World, when you see that long stem with alternate leaves, the genus is Epidendrum.

Very good. Thank you.

Thank you so much. Habitat photos are always very informative. Next time you go, it would be nice to show photos of the nearby environment, so we can learn how they grow. For example, not just the plant, but the tree, the landscape, the hill.

Ok I will do that. Good idea.

Definitely Epidendrum.

Also, if you are able to get some good close-ups of the floral details too. It helps identify the orchid. Many orchids are still identified through morphology. In many cases, when certain species look very similar to each other it comes down to the size of the plant, the size of the flower, the appendages that are on the flower's column or labellum, the shape of the callus that is on the labellum, or the ridges that are on the labellum. Leaves matter too. Sometimes the differences can be seen on the tip of the leaves, the leaf arrangements, and the size and shape.

It seems to me many of these plants are far into a tree, just within reach of Pitter's lens.

That was the case here. I certainly would have gone for a close up of the flower if I could have reached it. The next time I go looking for orchids with my pal we will bring a short step ladder. Could have used it several times on this hike.

This particular species of Epidendrum I think I've seen for sale. I just don't remember who's selling it. The lip on this Epidendrum is pretty distinct.