Eulophia andamanensis

[King_of_orchid_growing:)]

This is Eulophia andamenensis (aka Eulophia keithii). Upon looking at the flowers, it is not readily evident that they are Cymbidium relatives. Look at the pseudobulbs, and it is clear where they belong on the family tree.

Seeing the flowers in person beats seeing these in photos anytime. The reason is that the colors of the patterns on the lip typically get washed out to a muddy green-brown color when in real life the edge of the lip is a crisp yellow-green and the vein patterns are a mocha brown color with a hint of yellow-green.

The way the labellum is shaped and arranged is difficult to describe, so I'll let the photo do the talking.

In my opinion, I think it is unfortunate that this species is a highly underrated and rarely grown plant due to lack of appeal for not only it's flower size [which is only 1 1/8" (2.8 cm) across, and 3/4" (approx 2 cm) tall], but it's muted earth tone colors as well.

[nenella]

Nice photos! Another one I had never seen.Thanks for posting!

[King_of_orchid_growing:)]

Thank you, and you're welcome.

[Cym Ladye]

Although this species may be listed in the Subfamily Epidendroideae and the Tribe Cymbidieae, it is in the Subtribe Cyrtopodiinae, not Cymbidiinae where Cymbidiums are placed. Not to go into detail, but flower description alone shows a considerable difference, specifically but not limited to the existence of spurs. The formation of pseudobulbs is characteristic of many Subtribes.

I suspect under most outdoor growing conditions it would not be considered a true "Cymbidium Companion" but it would all depend on the native climate and the type of Cymbidiums grown.

That said, it is a genus that sadly gets little recognition as it is a very interesting one. Thanks for sharing.

CL

[King_of_orchid_growing:)]

Good additional info on the classification of the genus Eulophia.

This is an intermediate to warm grower.

Eulophia spp. has some interesting flower morphologies. Certain species are even very showy. Unfortunately, the showy species are not available to the general public.

@CL: You're welcome.