The miniature orchid Cleisostoma arietinum (Rchb. f.) Garay 1972 has been primarily classified by the German botanist Heinrich Gustav Reichenbach
as Sarcanthus arietinus Rchb.f. 1869.

The American botanist and orchid specialist Leslie Andrew Garay (born 1924) has reclassified the beautiful, small flowered orchid as Cleisostoma arietinum in 1972. The epiphytic growing Cleisostoma arietinum orchid species is native to India (Assam), Myanmar (formerly Burma), Thailand, Laos, Malaysia and Vietnam. Inflorescences get lengths up to about 10 cm and carry 20-40 single flowers. Flowers get a size of just 0,5 cm in diameter and are best viewed with a magnifying glass or a macro lens.
Flowering period: Spring - Summer.

Cleisostoma arietinum orchids are protected by CITES Appendix II (trade controlled to avoid use incompatible with species survival). The tropical miniature orchid requires intermediate - hot temperatures and bright light, but no full sun. Plants should be kept moist, but not wet, whilst waterings should be restricted during the winter rest.

Flower Photography © Orchids Flowers.com
Image: Cleisostoma arietinum (Rchb. f.) Garay 1972
Photographer: Kitisak “Nat” Jaidee

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