The miniature orchid Sarcoglyphis smithianus (Kerr) Seidenf. 1992,
an epiphytic growing small orchid, is native to Thailand, Laos, Vietnam
and South China (Yunnan).

The Sarcoglyphis smithianus orchid was named in honour to the English botanist Sir James Edward Smith (1759 – 1828). Sarcoglyphis is a small orchid genus within the Vandeae tribe, containing just 12 species, established by the American botanist and orchid specialist Leslie Andrew Garray (born 1924) in 1972. Inflorescenses with up to 10 flowers reach a length of about 20 cm, the small white flowers with a purple lip get a size up to just 1 cm in diameter and are best viewed with a magnifying glass or a macro lens. Flowering period: April - May. Sarcoglyphis smithianus orchids are protected by CITES Appendix II (trade controlled to avoid use incompatible with species survival). The tropical miniature orchid requires a warm - hot, humid climate.

Flower Photography© Orchids Flowers.com
Image: Sarcoglyphis smithianus (Kerr) Seidenf. 1992, Flower Macro
Photographer: Kitisak “Nat” Jaidee

Flower Photography © Orchids Flowers.com
Image: Sarcoglyphis smithianus (Kerr) Seidenf. 1992, Inflorescense
Photographer: Kitisak “Nat” Jaidee