Chamelophyton
(pronounced: kam-ee-low-FYE-ton)
Classification
Epidendreae subtribe Pleurothallidinae
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Overview
Miniature trailing epiphytes rooting along the stem. Secondary stems (ramicauls) minute. Leaves one per secondary stem, sessile, elliptic-suborbicular. Inflorescences subsessile, one per leaf. Flowers barely opening. Dorsal sepal and petals free, the lateral sepals fused into a synsepal. Lip three-lobed, the callus of two low keels. Column club-shaped, without wings, with a short foot; pollinia 6, naked.
Etymology
From the Greek chamai, meaning lowly or prostrate, and phyton, meaning plant, referring to the miniature trailing habit.
Distribution
A monotypic genus endemic to Venezuela and the Guianas. This species had been included in a broadly defined Pleurothallis but differs by its pollinia number.
Care and Culture Card
See basic growing conditions and care information below.
Mount plants of Chamelophyton on slabs without any moisture-retaining material at the roots. Provide intermediate to warm temperatures, medium light levels, and regular watering throughout the year.
Literature
Garay, L. A. 1974. Acostaea Schltr. y los géneros del complejo Pleurothallis. OrquideologÃa 9:103-124.
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