Platylepis
(pronounced: play-tee-LEEP-iss)
Classification
Cranichideae subtribe Goodyerinae
Overview
Trailing terrestrials rooting at the nodes with erect leafy stems. Leaves ovate, petiolate, spirally arranged. Inflorescences terminal, erect, scapose, densely-flowered racemes, the peduncle bracts +/- foliaceous, the floral bracts conspicuous, longer than the ovaries, with long glandular trichomes. Flowers inconspicuous, tubular. Sepals free, the petals lightly fused to the dorsal sepal. Lip boat-shaped, fused to the column for part of its length, basally saccate, reflexed at the apex. Column elongate, the rostellum two-lobed; pollinia 2.
Distribution
A genus of 10 species in tropical Africa, South Africa, Madagascar, and the Mascarene Islands.
Care and Culture Card
See basic growing conditions and care information below.
Grow Platylepis in a terrestrial or fine seedling mixture in shallow bulb pans. Provide intermediate temperatures, low light levels, and keep evenly moist throughout the year.
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