[ 16 ] 
Pacific side that the numerous white varieties recently discovered and imported have come. Generally, this Lelia is 
found growing on trees on the outskirts of virgin forests, but occasionally on rocks, fully exposed to sun and air. The 
plants cling to the rocks by means of their roots, and these are nourished by decayed moss and detritus. Wherever 
the plants grow fully exposed their bulbs and leaves assume a ruddy tinge, while those in partial shade are green, and 
do not flower so abundantly. The climate of this part of Mexico is peculiar. There is a distinct rainy season, 
extending from May to October. During this period the plants are drenched daily with rain for several hours, and_ 
throughout the night are thoroughly saturated. Early in the morning a cold, drying wind blows and dries the plants, 
which afterwards are fully exposed to the fierce sun until the daily storm drenches them afresh. After the rainy 
season has ceased in November the plants flower, and the new growths formed during the rainy season are fully 
developed, and become firm or ripened. Now the plants, owing to the dryness, are at rest, but about the end of 
February the new bulbs begin to show signs of activity by sending out roots, and these are encouraged by the 
“short rainy season,” which occurs about that time. But the rain then is only like fine mist and does not saturate 
the plants, and this goes on until the return of the long rainy season. The new bulbs begin to form about March, and 
are well advanced before the heavy rains come. These are the main points in the observations gathered from 
collectors, and from them growers may glean hints as to the treatment of Lelia anceps, though, of course, due 
allowance must always be made for the artificial conditions under which orchids are cultivated in Europe, and the 
wide difference in the power of a Mexican sun and clear atmosphere. It would be difficult to imitate closely the 
natural conditions, but the main principles of cultural treatment may be founded upon the climatic peculiarities of 
their native habitats. The variety Sanderiana flowers in February, and continues in bloom for several weeks if kept 
cool and dry. It is therefore one of the latest varieties to flower, and as the earliest expands in the beginning of 
December, the season of this Lzelia extends over fully three months. 
Drawn from a plant in the collection of Baron J. H. W. von Schroeder, The Dell, Egham, near Windsor. 
