i8o ORCHIDS FOR EVERYONE 



the nomenclature of the genus was confused. The male flowers 

 are the most prominent, and in most cases there is a spring-like 

 arrangement consisting of a curved horn-like attachment to the 

 column, which, when released by an intruding insect, forcibly 

 ejects the adhesive pollen masses. The writer well remembers an 

 inquisitive old lady receiving the pollen masses of Catasetum macro- 

 carpum on the tip of her nose as a result of a too close inspection 

 of a plant on view at Kew. As the adhesive matter congeals 

 rapidly, the discomfiture of the lady caused some amusement for 

 a few moments. 



Catasetums are not difficult to cultivate, provided a position in 

 the stove is afforded them where they will receive abundance of 

 moisture at the roots and in the atmosphere while growing freely, 

 and also strong light. When the new growths cease to form new 

 leaves, the plants should be placed so as to receive fdl sunshine, 

 and at the same time the supply of water at the roots must be 

 steadily reduced, until, when the leaves turn yellow and fall, it is 

 withheld altogether, and the compost is allowed to remain dry 

 during the resting period. When the flower spikes appear a little 

 water will be needed, but it must be given sparingly until after 

 the plants have been re-potted, and new roots and growth make 

 larger demands. Catasetums should be re-potted annually, or 

 rather, should be given new rooting material each year. Teak 

 baskets are better receptacles than pots or pans, as they are the more 

 readily suspended near the roof. The compost found most suit- 

 able for these Orchids consists of peat and sphagnum in equal 

 proportions, with small crocks, sand, and broken charcoal added. 

 When at rest, place the plants in a light position in the stove, 

 either on a shelf or raised above the moisture-holding material 

 on the stage. 



The most desirable species are C. Bungerothii, which has 



