Vanda thwaitesii: Sri Lanka’s Hidden Orchid Gem – By Malsha – eLanka
Image Source : flowersofindia
Among the lush rainforests and misty highlands of Sri Lanka grows a dazzling treasure of the Orchidaceae family — Vanda thwaitesii. This rare and exquisite orchid, endemic to the island nation, is a botanical gem that captivates the eye of horticulturists, orchid lovers, and conservationists alike.
Botanical Classification and Origin
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Family: Orchidaceae
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Genus: Vanda
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Species: Vanda thwaitesii
The species is named in honour of George Henry Kendrick Thwaites, a British botanist who made significant contributions to the study of Sri Lankan flora during his tenure as the director of the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens in the 19th century.
Description and Morphology
Vanda thwaitesii is a terrestrial to epiphytic orchid, meaning it can grow on trees or on the ground in organic matter. It thrives in humid, montane forests and is usually found clinging to moss-covered branches or growing amidst leaf litter in shady environments.
Key Features:
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Flowers: The blossoms are typically small to medium-sized with delicate petals in shades of pale lavender, violet, or bluish purple, depending on the elevation and habitat.
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Leaves: The leaves are leathery and strap-shaped, arranged in a fan-like fashion along a slender stem.
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Roots: Like most vandas, V. thwaitesii has thick, aerial roots that absorb moisture from the air.
The plant blooms mostly during the late monsoon to post-monsoon season, showcasing a subtle fragrance and graceful beauty.
Habitat and Distribution
This species is endemic to Sri Lanka, specifically found in the wet zone forests of the central and southwestern highlands, such as Sinharaja Forest Reserve, Knuckles Range, and the Hanthana mountain range. These areas are rich in biodiversity and receive ample rainfall, making them ideal habitats for V. thwaitesii.
Ecological Importance
Orchids like Vanda thwaitesii are important indicators of ecological health. Their presence often reflects a balanced ecosystem with undisturbed forest canopies, stable humidity levels, and rich biodiversity. These orchids also form symbiotic relationships with fungi (mycorrhiza), aiding nutrient absorption in nutrient-poor tropical soils.
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Conservation Status
Vanda thwaitesii is considered rare and vulnerable, primarily due to:
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Habitat loss from deforestation and encroachment
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Illegal collection for ornamental trade
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Climate change, which alters its delicate montane ecosystem
The species is listed in the CITES Appendix II, meaning its trade is regulated to prevent exploitation. In Sri Lanka, it is protected under the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance, and collecting specimens from the wild is prohibited.
Cultivation and Propagation
While cultivation is difficult due to its specific habitat needs, some orchid enthusiasts and botanical gardens have attempted to propagate Vanda thwaitesii through micropropagation and seed culture under controlled environments. Success in these ventures not only helps conservation efforts but also offers insights into ex-situ preservation methods.
Conclusion
Vanda thwaitesii is more than just a flower; it is a symbol of Sri Lanka’s rich natural heritage. Protecting this orchid is a step toward preserving the island’s irreplaceable biodiversity. Whether admired in the wild or studied in botanical institutions, Vanda thwaitesii continues to enchant and educate, reminding us of nature’s intricate and fragile beauty.
