Oligophyton
(pronounced: ol-ig-oh-FYE-ton)
Classification
Orchideae subtribe Habenariinae
Overview
Terrestrials arising from paired tubers. Leaves rosulate, petiolate. Inflorescences terminal, erect, long-scapose spicate racemes. Flowers minute. Sepals and petals free, subsimilar, subequal. Lip three-lobed, spurred. Column short, the rostellum truncate; 2, each on a distinct viscidium.
Etymology
From the Greek oligo, meaning few, and phyton, meaning plant, referring to the rarity of this genus.
Distribution
A monotypic genus endemic to Zimbabwe.
Care and Culture Card
See basic growing conditions and care information below.
Grow Oligophyton in small pots of sandy terrestrial mixture. Provide cool temperatures, bright light, and regular watering during the growing season. Reduce watering after flowering to a maintenance level.
Literature
Linder, H. P. and G. Williamson 1986. Notes on the orchids of southern tropical Africa, II. Oligophyton drummondii, gen. et sp. nov. Kew Bull. 41(2):313-317.
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