Ypsilopus
(pronounced: ip-SIL-op-sis)
Classification
Vandeae subtribe Aerangideae; allied to Tridactyle Schlechter.
Overview
Erect or pendent monopodial epiphytes with short stems. Leaves two-ranked, linear to strap-shaped, acute to bilobed, conduplicate, coriaceous. Inflorescences solitary or racemes, axillary from the older leafless bases of the stems. Flowers white or pale green. Sepals and petals subsimilar, free. Lip unlobed, with a long nectar spur. Column short, stout, with an elongate bilobed rostellum; pollinia 2, on a Y-shaped stipe.
Distribution
A genus of four species restricted to East and South-central Africa.
Care and Culture Card
See basic growing conditions and care information below.
Erect species of Ypsilopus may be grown in small pots but slab culture, without any moisture-retaining medium, is recommended. Give plants intermediate to cool temperatures, bright light, and frequent (daily) watering provided that the plants dry out between waterings.
Literature
Summerhayes, V. S. 1949. African Orchids XIX. Kew Bull. 4:427-443.
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