Cryptarrhena
Cryptarrhena
Cryptarrhena is a genus of orchids comprising three known species, all native to the New World Tropics. These orchids are found across Central and South America, including countries like Mexico, Colombia, Peru, Brazil, and the island of Trinidad. They are distinguished by their diverse geographical distribution within these tropical regions.
Key Facts
- ›Genus Cryptarrhena belongs to the Orchidaceae family.
- ›It includes three recognized species.
- ›Native to the New World Tropics.
- ›Species are found in Central and South America and Trinidad.
- ›One species, Cryptarrhena lunata, also occurs in Jamaica.

New World Tropics, Central America, South America, Trinidad, Mexico, Colombia, Peru, Brazil, Jamaica
About Cryptarrhena
The genus Cryptarrhena is a group of orchids belonging to the family Orchidaceae. It is characterized by its three recognized species, all of which are indigenous to the New World Tropics. These orchids are distributed across a significant geographical area, encompassing parts of Central and South America, as well as the island of Trinidad. One species also extends its natural range to Jamaica.
Species and Distribution
- Cryptarrhena guatemalensis: This species is found in Central America, Trinidad, and extends south to Brazil and Peru in South America.
- Cryptarrhena kegelii: Native to South America, its distribution reaches as far south as Brazil and Bolivia.
- Cryptarrhena lunata: This species has a broader distribution, occurring in Mexico, Central America, Colombia, Peru, Trinidad, and Jamaica.
The collective native range of Cryptarrhena species highlights their adaptation to diverse tropical environments within the Americas.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
How many species are in the genus Cryptarrhena?
The genus Cryptarrhena consists of three known species. These species are distributed across various regions within the New World Tropics.
Where are Cryptarrhena orchids native to?
Cryptarrhena orchids are native to the New World Tropics, primarily found in Central and South America. Their range extends to countries like Mexico, Colombia, Peru, Brazil, and the island of Trinidad.
What is the family of Cryptarrhena orchids?
Cryptarrhena orchids belong to the family Orchidaceae, which is the orchid family. This family is one of the largest families of flowering plants.
Which countries are home to Cryptarrhena species?
Cryptarrhena species are found in Mexico, Central America, Colombia, Peru, Brazil, and Trinidad. Cryptarrhena lunata also extends its range to Jamaica.
Related Orchid species
Barbosella
Barbosella is a genus of creeping orchids comprising about 20 species, primarily found across the West Indies and Latin America, from Mexico down to Argentina. These orchids are distinguished by their solitary flowers, which feature a unique lip base that functions like a ball and socket joint. The genus was named in honor of João Barbosa Rodrigues, a notable investigator of Brazilian orchids.
Arpophyllum
Arpophyllum is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the orchid family, Orchidaceae. Native to Mexico, Belize, Central America, Colombia, Venezuela, and Jamaica, this genus is distinguished by its typically compact growth habit and a limited number of recognized species.
Gongora
Gongora is a genus of orchids belonging to the family Orchidaceae, comprising around 65 species primarily found in Central America and tropical South America, with a significant concentration in Colombia. These epiphytic plants are distinguished by their pendulous inflorescences bearing numerous flowers that hang upside down, often with distinctive fragrances and waxy blooms. The genus is named in honor of Antonio Caballero y Gongora, a Spanish viceroy and governor.