The classification of this species was published by Calaway H. Dodson in Selbyana, 1: 128.

The holotype is kept at Systematic Entomology Laboratory (SEL).

Etymology: This species is named for Alvin Embree, an American orchidologist.

Molecular analysis by Whitten al. revealed the major chemical component of this species fragrance is trans-methyl cinnamate.

Closely related species are Stanhopea frymirei & Stanhopea jenischiana based on molecular data.