Is there any official way to document plant lineage?
What I mean to ask is, is there any way to prove that
a plant that someone sells to me is what they say it
is? Or are you required to take the word of the seller?

Obviously some sellers are reputable enough, so you
don't have to question their plants. But in the case
of an orchid/garden show (or on-line sites and auctions
for that metter), where young plants are being sold,
how can you be sure you are getting what you pay for?

Thanks,
Chris