Schlechtendal's Goodyera (Goodyera schlechtendaliana)
Goodyera schlechtendaliana is mainly a terrestrial orchid, but it can also grow on moss-covered limestone as a lithophyte and occasionally as an epiphyte. It is reported to be an evergreen perennial herb.
Overview
Goodyera schlechtendaliana is mainly a terrestrial orchid, but it can also grow on moss-covered limestone as a lithophyte and occasionally as an epiphyte. It is reported to be an evergreen perennial herb.
Origin and habitat
Its native range includes Japan, the Korean Peninsula, mainland China, the Himalayas, and Sumatra; in Japan it occurs in Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, Kyushu, and the Ryukyu Islands north through Amami Oshima, while another source records it from Taiwan but Taiwanese taxonomic data have issues with the application of the name. It is reported from closed, humid broadleaf primary forests through montane primary forests and montane cloud forests, where it can grow in moist, humus-rich rock crevices and on moss-covered limestone. It is reported to inhabit cool, humid highland to montane cloud-forest environments.
Characteristics
The leaves are reported to be ovate, pointed at the tip, and clasping at the base, with glossy green upper surfaces marked by pale yellow patterns and gray-green undersides; the stem can be enclosed by several leaves. The flowers are reported to be small, borne on an erect, hairy inflorescence with a few to several flowers clustered near its upper portion and arranged roughly in the same plane. Flowering is reported from late spring through summer to autumn. Few sources indicate a mature height of about 12–25 cm.
Humidity and airflow
Goodyera schlechtendaliana is reported to prefer high humidity.
Temperature and dormancy
Goodyera schlechtendaliana is reported to be cool-growing.
Growing medium and mounting
In natural habitat, it is reported to grow in moist, humus-rich substrate and on moss-covered limestone. It is terrestrial. It is reported to have fleshy roots.
Identification
Goodyera schlechtendaliana has patterned leaves described as glossy green with pale yellow markings, together with small flowers and an erect, hairy inflorescence.
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