Mexican Orchid of the Month: The bent Ornithocephalus

Ornithocephalus inflexus 

By Biól. Karen Muñoz

Agosto 13, 2026

During the month of August, we invite you to awaken your curiosity and take a very close look at the trunks of old citrus trees or tree ferns, as their bark is the habitat of the miniature orchid we are presenting this time: Ornithocephalus inflexus, popularly known as “Colita de pavo” (Turkey Tail) or “puuts´mukuye” in Maya.

It is a small epiphytic orchid barely 7.5 cm in length. Its flowers, which grow grouped in inflorescences almost as long as the plant itself, are tiny—measuring close to 5 mm. With close attention, you will notice that the column and the lip (reproductive structures of the orchid) resemble the head of a bird curved inward. Hence its scientific name, which combines the Greek words “ornis” (bird) and “cephalus” (head) along with the Latin “in” (inward) and “flectere” (to bend).

Unlike other orchids, this one lacks pseudobulbs, and its leaves grow grouped in what resembles the shape of a fan or a turkey tail where it gets its common name.

It inhabits warm to temperate climates in Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Costa Rica, and Panama, but you don’t have to travel that far to marvel at it; we can also find it right here at the Vallarta Botanical Garden.

Furthermore, as if its undeniable charm were not enough, traditional medicine attributes healing properties to it. Its sap has been used for years as a remedy against insect bites.

Do you think you can find it? We look forward to seeing you at the Garden and invite you to marvel at the beauty of our smallest inhabitants.