Altensteinia
(pronounced: al-ten-STYNE-ee-ah)
Classification
Cranichideae subtribe Prescottiinae. A more broadly defined Altensteinia previously included species now placed in Aa and Myrosmodes.
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Overview
Terrestrials with fleshy fasciculate roots. Leaves rosulate or diminishing in size from the base and grading with foliaceous bracts, sessile, lanceolate. Inflorescences terminal pedunculate spicate racemes. Flowers not resupinate. Sepals and petals subsimilar, free or somewhat fused, often ciliate. Lip unlobed, concave, without callus. Column short, stout, club-shaped; pollinia 4, sessile on a V-shaped viscidium.
Etymology
Commemorating Baron Karl von Stein zum Altenstein (1770--1840), Prussian minister of state and supporter of botany.
Distribution
A genus of nine species from the high elevations of South America.
Care and Culture Card
See basic growing conditions and care information below.
Grow plants of Altensteinia in well-draining sandy loam in pots. Provide cool temperatures, bright light levels, and regular watering when in active growth. Reduce watering to a maintenance level after flowering until the onset of new growth.
Literature
Schlechter, R. 1913. Die Orchidaceen-Gattungen Altensteinia H. B. et Kth., Aa Rchb. f. u. Myrosmodes Rchb. f. Repert. Spec. Nov. Regni Veg. 11:147-150.
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