Chiloschista pusilla

Description

Chiloschista is a vandaceous genus of approximately 19 species native to SE Asia.  The genus name is from the Greek cheilos = “lip” and schistos = “cleft,” and it is closely related to the genus Sarcochilus.  Plants are typically leafless although they sometimes produce a couple tiny leaves.  Photosynthesis, then, is performed by the extensive root systems.  Grow mounted, intermediate to warm with plenty of water and moderate light.

Flowers occur on long inflorescences with showy, rounded petals and sepals.  I have found some to be wonderfully fragrant.  If you love roots and you can grow mounted orchids, you will LOVE this genus and find it very rewarding.