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Catasetum (Greek for downward or backward, and bristle). Orchidaceae. Epiphytic or terrestrial orchids, requiring hothouse conditions.
Stems short fusiform: lvs. plaited, membranaceous: scapes basal; fls. in racemes, globose or expanded; labellum fleshy; column erect, provided with sensitive appendages which, when touched, cause the pollen- masses to fly out; pollinia 2. The genus includes Monachanthus and Myanthus.—There are about 50 or 60 species in the American tropics.
The flowers are in racemes or spikes, firm in texture, and white or in shades of green, yellow, brown or purple. Catasetums are not much cultivated, since most of the species are not showy, but they are interesting to the botanist and amateur because of the striking ejection of the pollen-masses. Gardeners often have trouble with catasetums, but they are not difficult to grow if given good care. They need a high temperature, long period of rest, and free supply of water during the growing season. They are grown in both pots and baskets. Readily propagated by dividing the plants at the base; also from very ripe pseudobulbs cut in pieces and put in sand. For culture, see Orchids.
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