Monk orchid (Oeceoclades maculata, Gen. Sp. Orchid. Pl.: 237 (1833))

Family: Orchidaceae

Author: (Lindl.) Lindl.

Bibliography: Gen. Sp. Orchid. Pl.: 237 (1833)

Year: 1833

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Oeceoclades

Vegetable: False

Observations: Unknown

Description

The Monk Orchid, scientifically known as Oeceoclades maculata, is a fascinating member of the Orchidaceae family. Described and officially cataloged in 1833, this distinctive orchid was detailed in the work “Genera et Species Orchidacearum Plantarum” on page 237, authored by John Lindley who both discovered and scientifically reclassified it.

The Monk Orchid is notable for its adaptive capabilities and unique appearance. Its defining characteristic lies in its strikingly mottled leaves, which set it apart from many other orchids. These leaves bear a pattern of spots and streaks that appear almost art-like, making the plant both a botanical curiosity and a visual delight for orchid enthusiasts.

As a terrestrial orchid, Monk Orchids are often found growing in diverse habitats, ranging from forest floors to open, grassy areas. This adaptability underscores their resilience and ability to thrive in a variety of environmental conditions. Their ground-dwelling nature allows them to tap into the rich nutrients of the soil, supporting their growth and flowering cycles.

The flowers of the Monk Orchid add to its charm, typically emerging in varying hues that can include whites, pinks, or purples. The floral structure itself, coupled with its coloration, contributes to the aesthetic and ecological value of the plant, attracting pollinators and adding vibrant touches of color to their natural settings.

Botanical studies around this species emphasize its ecological significance and adaptive strategies, though detailed observations and specific studies about the Monk Orchid remain relatively scarce. This makes the Oeceoclades maculata an intriguing subject for further horticultural research, revealing more about the endemic attributes and potential uses of this enduring orchid.

In summary, the Monk Orchid encapsulates the delicate balance of beauty and resilience characteristic of the Orchidaceae family. Whether admired for its ornamental leaves or its vibrant blooms, Oeceoclades maculata represents a quintessential example of nature’s artistry and the ongoing wonder of botanical exploration.

Common Names

Eng: monk orchid, ground orchid
En: Monk orchid, Ground Orchid

Synonyms

Distribution

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Dec 15, 2021 by Cueto Joan (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 27, 2007 by EOL − Alex Popovkin (cc-by)

Taken Nov 24, 2008 by EOL − Michael Kesl (public)

Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – O. Vargas (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Apr 27, 2007 by EOL − Alex Popovkin (cc-by)

Bark

Taken Aug 1, 2022 by Marzanna Bug (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 1, 2022 by Marzanna Bug (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – O. Vargas (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Aug 13, 1985 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)

Leaf

Taken May 12, 2018 by Hugo SANTACREU (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 18, 2020 by Carneiro Tiago (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 3, 2019 by Hernandez Vladimir (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 17, 2020 by Canela Arison (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 21, 2021 by lopes de oliveira cristiane (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Oct 24, 2013 by EOL − tindalo (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jul 11, 2015 by EOL − Ismael Arellano (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Calvinal (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 28, 2012 by EOL − Reinaldo aguilar (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 16, 2016 by EOL − Damon Tighe (cc-by-nc)

Fruit

Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – O. Vargas (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Feb 13, 2018 by vini (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 28, 2012 by EOL − Reinaldo aguilar (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Feb 13, 2018 by vini (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 28, 2012 by EOL − Reinaldo aguilar (cc-by-nc-sa)

Other

Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – O. Vargas (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – O. Vargas (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – O. Vargas (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – O. Vargas (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken May 8, 2021 by amandine escarguel (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2840119)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Oeceoclades maculata (Lindl.) Lindl.)

Specifications

Growth habit: Forb/herb

Growth