any plant of the genus Brassia, family Orchidaceae; the genus embraces about 35 species of epiphytic (supported by other plants and having aerial roots exposed to the humid atmosphere) orchids native to southeastern North America, the West Indies, and parts of Central and South America. Each stem of a spider orchid has one to three leaves. The flower spike extends laterally from the plant in most species.

Spider orchid flowers are yellow, greenish yellow, or orange-yellow, often with spots or markings. The long, thin sepals and petals give each flower a spidery appearance.