Marguerite Webb discusses small-growing orchids prized for their
fragrant flowers Masdevallia mejiana from northern Colombia.
Grown by Everglades Orchids. Photo © Greg Allikas The orchid
family is famous for its exotically scented flowers. Some genera
have a greater number of fragrant members than others, but it is
said that nearly 75 percent of all orchid species have a
fragrance. Although this percentage is not as high in the
Pleurothallid subtribe, they make substantial contribution to
the ranks of aromatic orchids. They may not compete with the
garish, highly perfumed cattleya group, but just as the flowers
of a pleurothallis or masdevallia possess a delicate beauty,
their fragrance also may be subtle. Scents may be floral and
sweet, spicy, fruity or foul. The variety is much of the fun.
Pleurothallis pterophora has been called the lily of the valley
orchid because its numerous spikes of white bell-like flowers
and sweet scent are reminiscent of that plant. The strong floral
bouquet of this pretty pleurot