Encyclia cochleata v. gigantea 'Cockleshell Orchid' Orchidaceae Tonie Jones, Sonoma This is an interesting plant with a wide distribution from Venezuela and Colombia through Southern Mexico, Cuba, Brazil and Florida. The genus Encyclia was considered part of Epidendendrum until 1961, so you may find this plant under that genus. Tonie's plant was bred in New Zealand by someone who must have a collection of forms. The plant is a cross of 'Pigail' x 'Huge' and the flowers were nearly white. The usual form has lemon-green petals with a purple lip. Tonie has grown it for some time but this is her first flower. It blooms all year around, so she may have more flowers in the months ahead.