Bonatea speciosa
- Bonatea speciosa by Karsten Wodrich
Description
Robust terrestrial, up to 950mm tall. Leaves 4-19 cauline, oblong to broadly spear-shaped and up to 155mm long. Inflorescence rather dense, with up to 40 flowers, which are green and white. Previously related to Bonatea antennifera which was known as Bonatea speciosa var. antennifera, while this species was known as Bonatea speciosa var. speciosa. Both varieties have now been recognised as species in their own right. Scented at dusk and pollinated by hawkmoths.
Distribution in South Africa
All along the Westren Cape coast from north of Cape Town, through the Eastern Cape and up to northern KwaZulu Natal.
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Typical habitat
Common in sandy soil in coastal scrub, on forest margins and sometimes in savanna, from near sea level to 1300m.
Flowering Period
This species typically flowers between June and December.
Distribution elsewhere in Africa
Also found in Zimbabwe.
Conservation Status
Widespread and common, therefor not endangered. Click on the distribution map to see the latest conservation status also refer to Provincial Species List on this site for Provincial Red and Orange listing and SANBI Orchid red list.
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 2019-05-02.
Proof read and edited by Karsten Wodrich.
Images
- Bonatea speciosa by Karsten Wodrich
