Name: Myrmecophila tibicinis (Bateman ex Lindl.) Rolfe

Synonyms: Schomburgkia tibicinis (Bateman ex Lindl.) Bateman; Bletia tibicinis; Cattleya tibicinis; Epidendrum tibicinis; Laelia tibicinis

Etymology: The genus name Myrmecophila means “ant-loving” and refers to the hollow pseudobulbs that are frequently inhabited by ants. The epithet tibicinis is derived from Latin and means “of the flute player,” referring to the shape of the hollow pseudobulbs.

First description: The species was described by Bateman ex Lindley as Epidendrum tibicinis in 1838; the combination Myrmecophila tibicinis was published by Rolfe in 1917.

Origin / Habitat: Mexico to northern Venezuela, in warm tropical regions. It grows epiphytically or lithophytically and forms large, hollow pseudobulbs.

Description & Care: A large, vigorously growing orchid with long, hollow pseudobulbs and narrow leaves. The upright inflorescences can bear numerous flowers. We cultivate it in very bright to sunny conditions, with good air circulation and generous watering during the growing season. The growing medium should dry out considerably between waterings. We keep it warm, at approximately 20–32°C.

In vitro culture: You will receive a flask containing 4 young plants. The plants are usually already large enough to be potted out. After opening, carefully remove the nutrient medium from the roots completely using lukewarm water, then plant the young plants in fine, highly aerated bark with a small proportion of sphagnum moss. During the first few weeks, we recommend approximately 22–28°C, high humidity, strong air circulation, and bright, initially sheltered light. Keep the growing medium slightly moist, but do not leave the roots constantly wet; then gradually acclimate the plants to the very bright conditions and the drier culture of mature plants, allowing the growing medium to dry out more between waterings.