The diversity and endemism of Jamaica’s flora is reflected in the island’s flora. There are 60 genera and over 220 species of orchids. Thirty percent of the Jamaican orchid’s population is endemic (approx. 66 species). This high diversity may be accounted for by the variety of environmental habitats found on the island. Orchids are usually epiphytes (found on trees), there are some that may be terrestrial or lithophytic (found on rocks). Most Jamaican species may be found in high mountainous and forested regions where they are adapted to the shade and the moisture of these regions. However, a few species may be found acclimatized to drier, sunny lowland and coastal regions.
http://nhmj-ioj.org.jm/ioj_wp/botany/jamaican-orchids/
Comments