Name: Epidendrum geminiflorum Kunth
Synonyms: Epidendrum runayanum Hágsater & Dodson
Etymology:geminiflorum = paired-flowered / twin-flowered — refers to the paired arrangement of the flowers of this species, which usually appear in twos.

First described: 1816 by Karl Sigismund Kunth in Nova Genera et Species Plantarum(1: 354).
Origin / Distribution: Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Location / Habitat: Epiphytic or terrestrial, growing in cool, moist montane cloud and mountain forests of the Andes at elevations of approximately 2,000 to 3,300 meters. It thrives in shaded to partially shaded locations with high humidity year-round.
Description & Notes: Epidendrum geminiflorum is a medium-sized, often bushy orchid with upright, reed-like, branched stems. The stems are densely covered with alternately arranged, oblong-elliptical, and relatively stiff-leathery leaves. The terminal, very short inflorescence usually produces pairs (two) of waxy, fleshy flowers. The flower color usually ranges from pale green to yellow-green to cream tones.

Due to its origin in extreme altitudes, this highland species requires consistently cool to cool-temperate conditions in cultivation and is sensitive to prolonged summer heat. A noticeable drop in temperature at night is essential for growth. The substrate (e.g., fine bark mixed with some moss) should be kept evenly moist throughout the year and must never dry out completely. A shaded location with very high humidity and good ventilation is ideal.