Xerorchis

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Xerorchis (from Greek xeros, dry, and orchis, testicle-shaped) is a genus in the subfamily Epidendroideae, which belongs to the Orchidaceae family. This is a very primitive genus consisting or terrestrial orchises .

Habitat

Xerorchis thrives in South America.

Abnormality

It is unclear whether this genus should be classified in the lower or higher epidendroids.

Xerorchis has 8 pollinia, hence similar to the more advanced epidendroid genera of Epidendreae and Arethuseae . Yet its morphology, with unthickened stems and persistent leaves, is that of a bambusoid grass and makes it more similar to Tropidieae or Triphoreae .

Species

• Xerorchis amazonica
• Xerorchis trichorhiza