Name: Rhyncholaelia glauca (Lindl.) Schltr.
Synonyms: Brassavola glauca Lindl.; Bletia glauca (Lindl.) Rchb.f.; Laelia glauca (Lindl.) Benth.
Etymology: Rhyncholaelia is derived from the Greek word rhynchos (beak) and the genus Laelia, alluding to the beak-like fruits. The species name glauca (Latin glaucus = bluish-green/glaucous) refers to the characteristic waxy, bluish coloration of the leaves.

First described: In 1839 by John Lindley as Brassavola glauca; transferred to the genus Rhyncholaelia in 1918 by Rudolf Schlechter.
Origin / Distribution:
Southern Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras.
Location / Habitat:
Epiphytic or occasionally lithophytic in open mountain forests at elevations of 700 to 1,600 m. The species prefers locations with pronounced seasonal dry periods and high light intensity.
Description & Notes:
Rhyncholaelia glauca is a compact-growing, sympodial orchid with short, spindle-shaped pseudobulbs, each bearing a single, very fleshy and stiff leaf. The leaves have a striking gray-blue (glaucous) coloration. The species usually produces a single, very large flower per growth (up to 12 cm in diameter). The flowers have a firm, waxy texture, are usually pale green to creamy white, and have a large, heart-shaped lip that, unlike that of its sister species R. digbyana, is not fringed. At night, the flowers emit an intense, sweet fragrance.
In cultivation, it requires very bright light (bright to sunny conditions) and excellent air circulation. Due to its creeping growth habit and need to dry quickly between waterings, mounting it on cork or growing it in a very coarse medium (e.g., pine bark) in mesh pots is recommended. A cooler, drier rest period in winter promotes flower initiation in spring.