Microcoelia aphylla

• Microcoelia aphylla by Hendrelien Peters

Description

Slender leafless epiphyte, with stems up to 400 mm long and only 2 mm in diameter, climbing with hook-like roots. Inflorescences lateral, many all along the stem. 8-16 flowers are white, with contrasting, rust-red sepal tips.  Column also rust coloured. Spur short and generally curled. Syn: Solenangis aphylla.

Distribution in South Africa

Northern KwaZulu Natal only.  Grows in warm, coastal conditions. 

 
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Typical habitat

Rare in west facing coastal dune forests, from near sea level to 100 m. 

Flowering Period

This species typically flowers between July and  August.   

Distribution elsewhere in Africa

Also found in Tanzania, Uganda, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Madagascar, Zanzibar, the Mascarene Islands and Mozambique

Conservation Status

Rare and only known from one area and thereby is 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 species article was written by Duncan Mc Farlane and published 2019-05-10.

Images

• Microcoelia aphylla by Hendrelien Peters