Smithsonia
(pronounced: smith-sohn-ee-ah)
Classification
Vandeae subtribe Aeridinae
Overview
Miniature monopodial epiphytes. Stems short, rooting at the base. Leaves few, oblong, obliquely bilobed at the apex, leathery. Inflorescences axillary short-pedunculate racemes, the floral bracts minute. Flowers opening widely. Sepals and petals free, spreading. Lip three-lobed, saccate, without callus. Column short, stout, without wings or foot; pollinia 4 in two unequal pairs, on a common stipe and viscidium.
Etymology
Named in honor of James Smithson, founder of the Smithsonian Institution.
Distribution
A genus of three species in endemic to southern India.
Care and Culture Card
See basic growing conditions and care information below.
Mount plants of Smithsonia on small slabs, especially hardwood branches, without any moisture-retaining material at the roots. Provide warm temperatures and bright light levels. Plants of Smithsonia have highly seasonal growth in nature. Water the plants regularly during the growing season allowing the roots to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering to a maintenance level when the plants are not in active growth.
Literature
Christenson, E. A. 1985. Sarcanthine Genera 3: Micropera Lindl. with a note on Loxoma Garay and Smithsonia Saldanha. Amer. Orchid Soc. Bull. 54(8):955-959.
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