Huntleyas and Related Orchids
Harding, Patricia A. 2008
Revered by avid orchid collectors for its delightful, star-shaped flowers, which in some species are brilliant red, Huntleya is among a small number of exotic New World genera characterised by thin, fan-shaped leaves and markedly diminished or no pseudobulbs. More common in cultivation are Kefersteinia with yellow flowers, Pescatorea with red-purple flowers and Warczewiczella with white-purple flowers. Besides the striking colours, flowers of this group are known for their distinctive shapes, patterns and textures. Chaubardia and Cochleanthes have blue lips. Many of the plants in this group produce multiple flowers on a compact plant, resulting in stunning displays.
As appealing as these lovely tropical orchids are, their identification has been confused since the mid-nineteenth century when the first species was described. DNA studies released in 2005 have led to a clearer understanding of relationships and, as a result of this clarity, it is now possible to sort out the taxonomic problems and identify the characteristics that set the species apart.
In this first book devoted to the Huntleya alliance, Patricia Harding presents evidence from scientific literature, other growers and her own experience that will enable orchidists everywhere to identify their plants and grown them successfully. More than 200 species are described, 150 of which are illustrated with colour photographs.
Hardcover. 260 pages
$25
