Dendrophylax fawcetti

[isurus79]

This ghost orchid is a Cayman Island native and is a close relative of the one found in FLA. Basically this is a tangle of roots with flowers that pop out every now and then! From what I understand this particular species is almost extinct in the wild due to the fact that its pollinator (a Sphinx Moth) has all but dissapeared. I also understand that this species is not common in culture either, so Im considering selfing it. Anyway, enjoy!!

[snow]

it looks beautyfull and healthy.
ps: do you have the right sphinx moth in hawaii?

[isurus79]

Originally Posted by snow

it looks beautyfull and healthy.
ps: do you have the right sphinx moth in hawaii?

I doubt we have the exact species that is found in the Caymans, but do we have a moth that has the correct proboscis length for fertilization??

I dunno!! I never even thought about it! How cool would it be if we did!?! If I see a fertilized flower, I will definitely let you know because Hawaii does have many species of Sphinx Moths!!

[isurus79]

Oh, forgot to mention that this guy does not smell particularly good. While faint, it kinda has the smell of a cheese whose name escapes me. Does Dendrophylax lindenii have any smell?

[nenella]

Very cool! thanks for sharing! i hope you manage to
self pollinate it.

[Sandy4453]

Steve, thanks sooooo much for the tour! Great pics! Loved this!

[isurus79]

Um, after researching this guy a little more Ive realized that it is actually funalis, not fawcetti. Bummer.

[quiltergal]

It's still wicked cool Steve! Nice growing!!

[MuscleGirl'sHobby]

What a unique and beautiful little 'chid! Nice growing.

[isurus79]

Thanks all!