Polyrrhiza funalis

Common Name - Corded Ghost Orchid - Rope-Like Dendrophylax

The correct name for the representatives of the genus is infact Polyradiction; however ,the name under which they are known among cultivators is Polyrhiza. These orchids are genuine floristic curiosities whose significance reaches beyond the boarders of the Orchidaceae family ! Orchids that belongs to the Polyrrhiza genus and some other genera as well (see Chiloschista,Microcoelia,etc .) have lost the ability to form normal leaves . The indispensable photosynthesis takes place only in the chlorophyll contained in their succulent greenish white . The lip is heart shaped and boasts a greenish spur . Cultivation requires a certain amount of experience:mount the ''root clusters ''of the species (very lightly and with the utmost care ) on bare wooden supports (elderberry is suitable ,for instance ) and hang them up in a well -ventilated place with a sufficient amount of diffused light. The Polyrrhiza funalis plants require frequent misting ,especially in the summer . Polyrhiza funalis blooms in culture only very unwillingly ;in its orginal habitat -Cuba and Jamaica-it flowers between February and May .

Synonyms

Aeranthes funalis (Lindl.) Rchb. f. 1864; Aeranthus funalis Rchb.f; 1864; Angorchis funalis (Sw.) Kuntze, 1891; Angraecum funale Lindl. 1846; *Epidendrum funale Sw. 1788; Limodorum funalis [Sw.]Sw 1806; Oeceoclades funalis Lindley 1833; Polyrrhiza funalis [Sw.] Pfitzer 1889; Trichocentrum funale (Sw.) Lindl. 1837