Name: Brassavola cucullata (L.) R.Br.

Etymology: The genus name Brassavola honors the Italian physician and naturalist Antonio Musa Brassavola. The specific epithet cucullata means "hood-shaped" and refers to the shape of the lip.

Origin/Distribution: Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, and northern South America.

Location/Habitat: Epiphytic, occasionally lithophytic, in bright and airy locations. We recommend plenty of filtered light, very good air movement, and warm to intermediate temperatures.

Description and Notes: Brassavola cucullata has slender, cylindrical leaves and extraordinarily elegant flowers with very long, narrow sepals and petals as well as a striking white lip. The flowers can be fragrant, especially in the evening and at night. We cultivate this species mounted or in a very coarse, fast-draining orchid substrate. Water regularly during growth; the roots should be able to dry out quickly afterward. Temperatures of approximately 18–30 °C and a bright location promote vigorous growth and flowering.