Acrolophia lunata
Description
Robust terrestrial, which grows up to 1,3m tall. Leaves are usually arranged in a basal fan and are up to 300mm long. Inflorescence carries many flowers up to 12mm long, which are white or pale pink. The lip is three lobed with 5 rows of papillae with darker reddish markings on the fringes of the papillae. Spur is club shaped. Formerly Acrolophia barbata.
Distribution in South Africa
Only found along the Western Cape coast east of Cape Town, where it is endemic.
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Typical habitat
Rare in moist fynbos, from sea level to 1700m.
Flowering Period
This species typically flowers between November and December.
Distribution elsewhere in Africa
N/A. Endemic to South Africa
Conservation Status
Rare.
All indigenous orchids are protected under South African legislation as well as CITES regulations.
References and additional information
Johnson, S.D., Bytebier, B., Stärker, H. (2010). Orchids of South Africa: A field guide. Struik Nature, Cape Town, South Africa.
La Croix, I.F., la Croix, E. (1997). African Orchids in the Wild and in Cultivation. Timber Press, Portland, Oregon, USA.
This genus and species article was written by Duncan McFarlane and published 2018-04-25.
Proof read and published by Karsten Wodrich.
