Originally considered to be in the same family as the kapok tree, and then in a family of its own, the genus Cochlospermum is now known to be a relative of annatto (Bixa orellana) - a South American plant widely used as a food dye.

This species is accepted, and its native range is Brazil to NE. Argentina. It is used as animal food, a poison, a medicine and invertebrate food, has environmental uses and for food.

A terrestrial orchid from tropical and subtropical America, Epidendrum radicans is often seen on roadsides or in grassland, clambering over vegetation. Its spectacular bright orange and yellow flowers are appreciated by some orchid enthusiasts. However, the plant is too vigorous for most collections and would soon take up too large a space.