Epidendreae

Epidendreae is a large and diverse tribe of orchids belonging to the subfamily Epidendroideae. This tribe is one of the most species-rich groups within the Orchidaceae family, encompassing a wide array of genera and habits. The geographical distribution of Epidendreae is primarily Neotropical, with species found throughout Central and South America, and extending into the Caribbean islands.

The genera within Epidendreae exhibit considerable variation in their growth forms, including epiphytic, lithophytic, and terrestrial species. Their inflorescences can be terminal or lateral, and the flowers display a remarkable range of shapes, sizes, and colors, adapted to various pollination syndromes. Many species are characterized by pseudobulbs, which serve as storage organs, though this feature is not universal across all genera.

Taxonomically, Epidendreae is complex and has undergone significant revisions. It includes well-known genera such as Epidendrum, Encyclia, and Cattleya, though the precise circumscription of these and other related genera continues to be a subject of research. Molecular phylogenetic studies have been instrumental in understanding the evolutionary relationships within this tribe and have led to the reclassification of several taxa. The ecological roles of Epidendreae species are varied, contributing to the biodiversity of tropical and subtropical ecosystems.