Phenotypic characterization of the intergeneric hybrid Miltonia flavescens x Brassia verrucosa (Orchidaceae)

ABSTRACT Hybridizations between orchid species are often studied with the aim of combining distinct ornamental qualities and integrating aspects inherent to their cultivation and phenotype. Miltonia orchids are known for their large, showy flowers, often with striking patterns and vibrant colors. On the other hand, the genus Brassia is notable for its flowers that resemble spiders, with long, thin petals giving them an exotic and unique appearance. This study aimed to elucidate the main features of hybrids from the crossing between Miltonia flavescens Lindl. and Brassia verrucosa Bateman ex Lindl. The pollinia collected from the flowers of B. verrucosa was used to manually polinize the flowers of M. flavescens; the obtained capsules were harversted, and the seeding was carried out using the asymbiotic in vitro germination. After in vitro growth and cultivation, the seedlings were acclimatized and cultivated in a greenhouse until the flowering stage. The progeny from this crossing exhibited light-yellow petals and sepals, and a white labellum with wavy edges. Among the 15 plants evaluated, the blooming was observed between October and November, and the flowers present shelf life of 20 to 25 days. Studies like this contribute to a better understanding of feature segregation in intergeneric hybrids, exploring aesthetic beauty, biological robustness, and variability, with the goal of developing innovations in floriculture and promoting the use of wild orchid species in hybridization within breeding programs.