Epidendrum Nursery Rhyme (we prefer Encyclia Nursery Rhyme and will explain that later) was one of our first Cattleya Alliance orchid crosses. We have continued to re-make this cross due to its overwhelming appeal. At first glance, one might wonder why so many hobbyists and commercial growers are interested in an orchid with blossoms that don't have vivid neon colors, and also retains a somewhat peculiar shape.

There may be a number of reasons why we have numerous requests for this orchid. First of all, the season of blooming begins around Easter and continues through Mother's Day. The flowers can be numerous. A mature plant can hold well over thirty blossoms. The size of the blossom also ranges in the "larger size" category for encyclias. And if one adores orchids with fragrance, it certainly has a sweet and sometimes overpowering fragrance. Then, given a population of hybrids, one finds numerous variations in color and patterning on the lip.

As the breeder I can also provide you with another possibility of its popularity. This orchid was hybridized specifically for Moms. Like many moms, my mom has a caring, loving quality. She wears clothing of subtle shades with whimsical designs. And she still loves to read nursery rhymes and stories to her grandchildren. She also wears a powdery smell of sweet perfume so much like Encyclia Nursery Rhyme.

Why do we prefer Encyclia Nursery Rhyme rather than its registered name Epidendrum Nursery Rhyme? First, we need to understand the old taxonomy verses the new taxonomy. At one time Encylias were all lumped together under Epidendrum. Later they were separated into Encylia, which makes a lot of sense to me. The plant structure is of significant difference. But how we treat new hybrids continues under the old naming system. Thus although Enc. Nursery Rhyme has no Epidendrum in it's background, it retained the old convention. We like the "would be" updated version because if offers a concise idea of what type of orchid it is and it's associated growth habit.

Which may be another reason why grower's like this orchid. It has a compact growth habit with spherical pseudobulbs, and leathery nine to twelve inch leaves. They also form spikes that rise up to three feet, with the blossoms well presented.