Paraphalaenopsis

(pronounced: payr-ah-fayl-eh-NOP-siss)

Classification

Vandeae subtribe Aeridinae. Paraphalaenopsis has been placed in a broadly defined Phalaenopsis by some authors. However, data from several lines of investigation suggest that apparent floral similarities result from convergent evolution and the two genera

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Overview

Pendent epiphytes. Stems short, rooting at the base. Leaves spirally arranged, terete, fleshy, laxly pendent, acute-subulate, with a groove along the upper surface. Inflorescences horizontal racemes, usually densely subumbellate, the peduncles short. Flowers showy, with undulate segments. Sepals and petals free, spreading, the margins frequently revolute. Lip three-lobed, clawed, with a prominent central callus. Column stout, with a foot, without wings; pollinia 2, with a cleft nearly dividing them into 4, on a common stipe and viscidium.

Distribution

A genus of four species endemic to Borneo.

Care and Culture Card

See basic growing conditions and care information below.


Literature

Hawkes, A. D. 1963. O género Paraphalaenopsis. Orquidea 25:212-215.

Hawkes, A. D. 1967. On Paraphalaenopsis. Phytologia 15(1):1.

Shim, P. S., A. Lamb and C. L. Chan 1981. A new Paraphalaenopsis from Sabah, Paraphalaenopsis labukensis Shim, Lamb & Chan. Orchid Digest 45:139-142.
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