Name: Encyclia vitellina (Lindl.) Dressler
Synonyms: Epidendrum vitellinum Lindl.; Prosthechea vitellina (Lindl.) W.E.Higgins; Pseudencyclia vitellina (Lindl.) V.P.Castro & Chiron
Etymology: vitellina = yolk-yellow / egg-yolk yellow — refers to the bright orange-red to yolk-yellow coloration of the petals.

First description:Described in 1831 by John Lindley as Epidendrum vitellinum; transferred to the genus Encyclia in 1961 by Robert Louis Dressler.
Origin / Distribution: Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras.
Location / Habitat: Growing epiphytically in humid pine-oak forests and montane cloud forests at higher elevations, typically at altitudes of approximately 1,400 to over 2,600 meters. It thrives in bright locations protected from direct midday sun, under cool to temperate conditions year-round and with a pronounced nighttime temperature drop.
Description & Notes: Encyclia vitellina is a medium-sized, extremely attractive orchid with ovoid, bluish-green (glaucous) pseudobulbs, usually bearing two to three elongated, lance-shaped, rigid leaves. The upright, sometimes branched inflorescence emerges from the tip of the mature pseudobulb and bears up to 12 (rarely more) waxy, exceptionally long-lasting flowers. The flowers captivate with their fiery orange-red color, contrasted by the small, narrow, bright yellow lip.

In cultivation, this distinct highland species absolutely requires cool conditions and is very sensitive to sustained summer heat above 25 °C without nighttime cooling. The substrate (e.g., medium-fine bark with good drainage) must be kept evenly moist during active growth in summer. In winter, the plant requires a significantly cooler, brighter period with reduced watering, during which the pseudobulbs should not be allowed to shrivel completely. Consistently high humidity and excellent air circulation are essential.