Catasetum is a genus of showy epiphytic orchids in the Orchidaceae family and subfamily Epidendroideae with 166 species, many of which are highly prized in horticulture. Species of the genus Catasetum occur from Mexico to Argentina, including much of Central America, the West Indies, and South America. The largest number of species is in Brazil. They have thick, cigar-shaped pseudobulbs which are clustered. The leaves are pleated in the upper part and deciduous. The pseudobulbs become spiny after the leaves have dropped. Many of these species are known to germinate in ant nests high in the canopy and host ant colonies, which provide the plants with an abundant supply of nitrogen, and they also host ants in cultivation frequently.

Catasetum expansum ‘Green’ is a large, evergreen epipythic orchid from the dry forests of Ecuador. It has folded leaves and attractive, very variable bright green flowers. It grows successfully in pots as a house plant under the right conditions and in nature will frequently be found growing in the forks of tree branches.

Growing orchids from seed is a fairly specialized undertaking and it requires a bit of understanding of tissue culture techniques. If you have never grown orchids from seed, we recommend that before attempting this you should first contact your local Orchid Society, or purchase a book on the subject, or both!