Ophioglossella
Classification
Vandeae subtribe Aeridinae
Overview
Miniature monopodial epiphytes. Stems pendent, short, rooting toward the base. Leaves alternate, distichous, twisted at the base to lie in one plane. Inflorescences racemes longer than the leaves, the floral bracts inconspicuous. Flowers campanulate. Sepals and petals free. Lip three-lobed, extremely fleshy, flexibly hinged to the column foot. Column arching, with a short foot, the anther T-shaped; pollinia 4, in two pairs on a common stipe and minute viscidium.
Etymology
From the Greek ophio, meaning snake, and the diminutive form of glossa, meaning a little tongue, referring to the elongate, forked rostellum which resembles a snake’s tongue.
Distribution
A monotypic genus endemic to New Guinea.
Care and Culture Card
See basic growing conditions and care information below.
Mount plants of Ophioglossella on small slabs with a pad of moisture-retaining material at the roots. Provide medium light levels, cool temperatures, and regular watering throughout the year. The plants should never fully dry out for long periods of time.
Literature
Schuiteman, A. and P. Ormerod 1998. Ophioglossella (Orchidaceae: Aeridinae), a new genus from Papua New Guinea. Kew Bull. 53(3):741-745.
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