Miltoniopsis vexillaria

Miltoniopsis vexillaria ("the flag-like Miltoniopsis") is a species of epiphytic orchid in the genus Miltoniopsis.

Description

The plants are pale green and about 12 inches (300 mm) tall. Inflorescences are about 12 inches (300 mm) long and carry up to four blossoms. The large, showy flowers are 2 inches (51 mm) – 4 inches (100 mm) across. They may be pink, often with white margins on the segments, or they may be white, sometimes with a pink flush or pink stripes. The lip, which has yellow markings at the base, is also marked with maroon stripes and blotches. The blossoms are very flat.

Distribution

Miltoniopsis vexillaria is found in isolated patches in the central mountain region of Colombia and on the western slopes of the Cordillera Occidental from the department of Antioquia in the north and also further south in northern Ecuador. It grows on the margins of montane forests at between 3,600 feet (1,100 m) and 7,250 feet (2,210 m).