Psychopsis

The genus Psychopsis comprises about five species of epiphytic orchids native to South and Central America. These orchids are commonly known as butterfly orchids due to their distinctive flowers, which resemble butterflies. The upper petals are narrow and antennae-like, the lateral sepals are larger and speckled like wings, and the central lip is typically solid-colored, mimicking the insect's body. The lip is usually yellow, while the other petals and sepals are often red-brown, yellow, or orange. P. papilio is a popular ornamental species with several horticultural varieties.1

The term "butterfly orchid" can also refer to species in the genus Platanthera, also known as rein or bog orchids. This genus has about 100 species found in Eurasia, North Africa, and the Americas. Notable species include the lesser butterfly orchid (Platanthera bifolia) and the greater butterfly orchid (P. chlorantha), both of which have pleasantly scented flowers arranged on a single spike.1