Orchid, fahamJumellea recta
Category
- Forests
Description
Jumellea recta is an orchid with scalloped, linear leaves, 10 cm long and 12 mm wide, with an elongated straight stem in the shape of a brush. The only white flower is 3 cm in diameter and the thin and pointed spur is 8 cm long.
Habitat and ecology
J recta is common in humid forests and some examples are observed in intermediate forests. This epiphytic species grows at the base of trunks and on rocks exposed to the wind.
Conservation and threats
Few patches or specimens have been found in the wild and the species is classified as ‘Critically Endangered’ on the IUCN Red List. It is protected under the forest restoration project and can be found in private forest areas. The population is decreasing due to habitat loss, orchid collectors and the invasion of exotic species.
Did you know?
The leaves of Faham are used to make rum arranged with the flower.
Recta derives from the Latin word rectus which means linear or straight.
This orchid was recorded for Mauritius in 1822 by Petit-Thouars.
