Erythrorchis
(pronounced: er-ee-THROR-kiss)
Classification
Vanilleae subtribe Galeolinae
Overview
Massive vining saprophytes. Stems branching, rooting at the base into decomposing organic matter. Leaves absent. Inflorescences numerous racemes, terminal on the stem branches. Flowers successive over long periods of time. Sepals and petals free, spreading. Lip three-lobed at the apex, the callus complex. Column club-shaped, without wings, with a short foot; pollinia 2, solid, naked. Fruits dehiscent capsules, the seeds winged.
Etymology
From the Greek erythros, meaning red, and orchis, meaning orchid, from the color of the flowers.
Distribution
A genus of three species from India to the Philippines, Borneo and Indonesia (Java). Plants of Erythrorchis are regarded as the largest saprophytes in the plant kingdom.
Care and Culture Card
See basic growing conditions and care information below.
Erythrorchis is an obligate saprophyte and can not be cultivated.
Literature
Garay, L. A. 1986. Olim Vanillaceae. Bot. Mus. Leafl. 30(4):223-237.
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