Xerorchis

Xerorchis is an orchid genus in the subfamily Epidendroideae. It is the sole representative of the tribe Xerorchideae. Xerorchis is only found in South America. [1]

Xerorchis
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom:Plantae
Clade:Tracheophytes
Clade:Angiosperms
Clade:Monocots
Order:Asparagales
Family:Orchidaceae
Subfamily:Epidendroideae
Tribe:Xerorchideae
P.J.Cribb
Genus:Xerorchis
Schltr.
Species
  • Xerorchis amazonica
  • Xerorchis trichorhiza

Taxonomy

It is unclear whether this genus should be classified in the lower or higher epidendroids. [citation needed]

Xerorchis has 8 pollinia, hence similar to the more advanced epidendroid genera of Epidendreae and Arethuseae. Yet its morphology, with unthickened stems and persistent leaves, is that of a bambusoid grass and makes it more similar to Tropidieae or Triphoreae. [citation needed]

Range

According to Plants of the World Online, Xerorchis is native to Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Peru, Suriname and Venezuela. [1]

References