Laelia
Laelia is a small genus of 25 species in the orchid family (Orchidaceae).[1] Laelia species are found in areas of subtropical or temperate climate in Central and South America, but mostly in Mexico.[2] Laelia is abbreviated L. in the horticultural trade.[3]
Mostly epiphyte herbs (with a few lithophytes) with laterally compressed pseudobulbs.[2][4] One to four leathery or fleshy leaves are born near the top of each pseudobulb, and can be broadly ovate to oblong.[4] The inflorescence is a terminal raceme (rarely a panicle).[2][4] The flowers have 8 pollinia; petals are of a thinner texture than the sepals; sepals and petals are of similar shape, but the sepals being narrower; the lip or labellum is free from the arched flower column.[2][4]
Species of Laelia can be found from western Mexico south to Bolivia, from sea level to mountain forests.[2][5]
The genus Laelia was described as part of subfamily Epidendroideae by John Lindley.[6] Brazilian Laelias, after being classified for several years under Sophronitis,[7] have now been placed in the genus Cattleya.[8] Moreover, species formerly placed in the genus Schomburgkia have been moved either to the genus Laelia or Myrmecophila.[9]
Species in this genus are found in forests from sea level to mountain habitats above 2000 m.[2] Species from above 2000 m of elevation like L. albida, and L. autumnalis are adapted to temperate climates and can be grown outdoors in places like the Mexican Plateau, California and other subtropical areas with cool summers.[2]
Laelia is one of the orchid genera known to use crassulacean acid metabolism photosynthesis,[citation needed] which reduces evapotranspiration during daylight because carbon dioxide is collected at night.
