cynorkis

These terrestrial orchids form root bulbs of a peculiar shape that gave the name to the whole genus :the organs happened to resemble canine testicles (the Greek word''kynos''means dog ,and ''orchis'' means testicle). The sparse leaves grow near the ground ; the erect flower stalk with glandular hairs bears one or more flowers arranged in an apical raceme. The multi-flowered stalk of the Madagascar -orginated plant in the photo measures 14in/3cm. The tepals are green colored ,the showy white lip is extended in to four lobes and has a purple spot on the narrowed base. As a cultivator of this species ,you must respect two growing periods :at the time of development ,the plant must be kept in a moist ,shady ,warm place ,where as in winter ,a longish dry and cool break is advisable . 125 species of the genus Cynorkis are reported as growing in Madagascar, as opposed to 17 species in mainland Africa.