Microcoelia exilis
- Microcoelia exilis by Lourens Grobler
Description
Slender, leafless epiphyte, with stems up to 40 mm long and 3 mm in diameter. Roots numerous, branching and twisted, not attached tightly to the host. Inflorescences lateral, several and up to 150 mm long with about 50 flowers. Flowers are white, 1.5 mm in diameter. Sepals and petals similar.
Distribution in South Africa
Mainly in KwaZulu Natal and to a lesser degree also in Mpumalanga.
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Typical habitat
Localised, but often common in riverine, coastal dune and sand forest from near sea level and 600 m.
Flowering Period
This species typically flowers between January and March.
Distribution elsewhere in Africa
Widespread in the eastern side of Africa, Madagascar and the Comoros Islands.
Conservation Status
Restricted to only 2 areas and not endangered, albeit rare.
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.
McMurtry D, Grobler L, Grobler J, Burns S. (2008). Umdaus Press. Field Guide to the Orchids of Northern South Africa and Swaziland.
This species article was written by Duncan McFarlane and published 2019-05-10.
Edited and proof read by Karsten Wodrich.
Images
- Microcoelia exilis by Lourens Grobler
