The frilly flowers of Myrmecophila are irresistibly attractive but in many species and hybrids occur on such long spikes that they are only truly suitable for tropical or subtropical gardens. We at Motes Orchids have tamed this exuberance by breeding with the two miniature species of Myrmecophila from the Cayman Islands, M. albopurpurea and M. thompsoniana. Both species diminish both plant size and spike length, producing hybrids that are easily managed in greenhouses, windowsills and even under lights.  The four hybrids offered here will all bloom on plants with bulbs 4-6 inches in height and flower spikes of 14-18”.  Myrmecophila hybrids have great vigor and produce two to three bulbs per year.

These highly compact, vigorous hybrids can even be grown and flowered under lights. Hybrids of Myrmecophila, unlike the species, produce 2 to 3 bulbs per year and quickly become quite showy plants. The plants offered are nearly mature despite compact size and should bloom strongly next Spring.  

2452 M. Karina Motes (albopurpurea x grandiflora) Surprisingly, considering the white with red lipped parent, these have been consistently deep lavender. They bloom on small plants with a 30 inch spike.

2466 M. (Karina Motes x thompsoniana var. Cayman Brac) These will bloom on very compact plants and should be golden bronze flowers on short spikes.

2612 M.( Mary Motes HCC/AOS x thompsoniana var. Cayman Brac) Golden yellow flowers with vivid dark purple lips on short, 30 inch spikes.

2615 M. (Karina Motes x albopurpurea} This back cross to M. albopurpurea should produce white flowers with a vivid purple lip on exceptionally vigorous very compact plants.