Plant of the month May,2003
Eng (thai)

 

 

Coelogyne xyrekes Ridl., J. Fed. Mal. St. Mus. 6, 3: 181. 1915.
Orchidaceae

Description: Epiphytic orchid. Pseudobulbs ovoid, closed, 4.5–5 x 1.5–2 cm, each bearing one leaf only. Leaves elliptic-oblong, 24–27 x 4.5–6 cm, with 3 prominent veins and 2–5 cm long stalk. Inflorescence up to 18 cm long; scape slender, to 12 cm long. Bracts 5–5.5 cm long. Flowers large, appearing singly. Sepals creamy pink, large, 5–5.5 x 1.8–2 cm. Petals the same color and length as sepals, narrow, 2.5–3 mm wide. Lip dark reddish brown, large, as long as or slightly longer than sepals and petals, with two wavy and papillose keels reaching apex of lip; side lobes rounded; mid lobe ovate, 2 cm wide, margin creamy pink, entire. Column pale yellow, as long as the two keels, broad at apex.

 

Distribution: Distributed from Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra to lower Peninsular Thailand, recorded from Phangnga, Krabi, Satun, Trang, montane forests, 700–1,900 m. It is a rare species. Not easy to cultivate in the lowlands.

Notes:  Last updated on 15 November 2016.

Thai name: Ueang pha mok (เอื้องผาหมอก), referring to its habitat which prefers high elevation, cool and foggy condition.

Photos: Naiyana Tesana (Khao Nan, Nakhon Sithammarat).

References: 
--