Family:  Orchidaceae
Scientific name:  Prosthechea cochleata
Common name:  Cockleshell orchid

Native of:  Central America, West Indies, Columbia, Venezuela, and southern Florida

Greenhouse location:  Room E

Prosthechea cochleata is known among orchid lovers for its non-resupinate (upside-down, lip uppermost) flowers. Its uniquely shaped, long-lasting flowers born on indeterminate (continually growing) stalks make it a favorite orchid for cultivation.

This New World orchid is an ephiphyte, meaning that it grows on the surface of another plant or tree and derives its moisture and nutrients from the air, rain, and debris.

It is the national flower of Belize, where it is called the black orchid.