Phalaenopsis viridis explained

Phalaenopsis viridis is a species of orchid native to the Indonesian island of Sumatra.^[1]

Description

This epiphytic species has 30 cm long and 8 cm wide, ovate to elliptic ovate leaves. The simultaneously opening flowers have brown colouration overlaying the green ground colour. The area of the column and labellum is devoid of such colouration. The inflorescence is erect and strongly lignified.^[2]

Ecology

This species grows in limestone and in open fields, where it is faced with low nutrient availability and drought, which in turn favours lignification of sclerenchyma. It is found at altitudes of 1000 m above sea level.^[3]

Etymology

The specific epithet viridis means green^[4] and refers to the floral colouration.^[5]

Notes and References

1. Web site: Phalaenopsis viridis J.J.Sm. | Plants of the World Online | Kew Science. powo.science.kew.org. 30 April 2022.
2. Pramanik, D., Spaans, M., Kranenburg, T., Bogarin, D., Heijungs, R., Lens, F., ... & Gravendeel, B. (2022). Inflorescence lignification of natural species and horticultural hybrids of Phalaenopsis orchids. Scientia Horticulturae, 295, 110845.
3. Nur'Afni, R. S. (2019). "Agricultural Science Park (Doctoral dissertation, Universitas Komputer Indonesia)".
4. Web site: viridis. Latinitium - Latin dictionaries. n.d.. April 30, 2022.
5. Christenson, Eric A. (2001). Phalaenopsis : a monograph. Portland, Oregon: Timber Press. p. 98-100. ISBN 1604691719.