Tridactyle tridentata
- Tridactyle tridentata by Martin Rautenbach
Description
Slender epiphyte or lithophyte, stems up to 300mm long, branching, angled and 3mm in diameter. Roots restricted to the very base. Leaves arranged in 2 rows, circular in cross-section, grooved, stiff and often fleshy. Inflorescences borne below the leaves, shorter than 5mm, 2-5 flowers which are pale green to cream, which are up to 8mm in diameter, sepals spreading , petals strap shaped, lip side lobes tooth like, spur 7-8mm long.
Distribution in South Africa
KwaZulu Natal south coast and northern Eastern Cape coast.
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Typical habitat
Occasional in lowland forest, often near forest margins, from near sea level to 300m.
Flowering Period
This species typically flowers between November and December.
Distribution elsewhere in Africa
N/A.
Conservation Status
Occasional over a reasonable area, therefor not really at risk.
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 orchids are protected under 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, edited by Karsten Wodrich and published 2019-05-24.
Images
- Tridactyle tridentata by Martin Rautenbach
- Tridactyle tridentata by Martin Rautenbach
