The name Lycaste is a reference to the beautiful daughter
of Priam, last king of Troy.
This genus produces large, showy triangular flowers that are waxy and
long-lasting. The plants are distinctive for their roundish bulbs and
broad, plicate(pleated) leaves. Lycaste habitat extends from Mexico to Bolivia. Many are enchantingly
fragrant. Though most are medium to large plants with very large flowers
there are at least two small species. Since they grow in mid to high
elevations and are at times even subjected to nighttime frosts, they
were considered low light growing plants. We now know that to get truly spectacular blooms, Lycastes require high light and intermediate
moist conditions. - orchids.mu
