Graphorkis
(pronounced: graff-ORE-kiss)
Classification
Cymbidieae subtribe Cyrtopodiinae. Graphorkis is similar to Eulophia and is combined with that genus by some authors. It differs by its strictly epiphytic habit, always branched racemes (panicles), and the beak-like rostellum which is unlike the short, br
Overview
Caespitose epiphytes. Pseudobulbs oblong, subtended by foliaceous bracts. Leaves one, elliptic-lanceolate, acute. Inflorescences suberect panicles, the peduncle bracts and bracts at the base of the branches conspicuous to twice as long as the ovaries, the floral bracts lanceolate, less than half the length of the ovaries. Flowers numerous. Sepals and petals subsimilar, free, spreading. Lip three-lobed, the midlobe two lobulate, spurred, the callus a pair of basal keels. Column stout, with a pair of pubescent swellings at the base, without wings or foot, elongate-toothed at the apex; pollinia 2, sessile on a minute viscidium.
Etymology
From the Greek graphe, meaning writing, and orchis, meaning orchid. The meaning of the name is obscure.
Distribution
A genus of five species ranging from West Africa to Madagascar. The genus is sometimes misspelt Graphorchis.
Care and Culture Card
See basic growing conditions and care information below.
Grow plants of Graphorkis in shallow “azalea” pots or baskets in a medium-grade to coarse-grade epiphyte mixture. Provide medium light levels and warm temperatures. Plants of Graphorkis exhibit a strong rest period. Watering should be withheld during the rest period although this is not critical if the plants are kept in a freely-draining coarse mixture.
Literature
Robbins, S. 1990. Graphorkis ecalcarata, a rare Madagascan orchid recently awarded by the Royal Horticultural Society. Orchid Rev. 98:176-179. Senghas, K. 1964. Die Gattung Graphorkis (= Eulophiopsis). Die Orchidee 15:61-66.
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