Status:
valid
Authors:
Luer
Source:
wcs
Year:
1981
Citation Micro:
Phytologia 49: 233 (1981)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000315728
Common Names
- Opercularis Stelis
- Claw Orchid
- Toothed Stelis
Description
Stelis opercularis (also called Opercularis' Stelis, among many other common names) is a small epiphytic orchid with a single, thin, erect stem and a few leaves. It is native to Mexico, and is found in humid montane forests at elevations of 1000-2000 meters.
Uses & Benefits
Stelis opercularis is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a cut flower. It is also used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Stelis opercularis is a small, white-greenish, tubular flower with a yellowish-green lip. The seed is a small, black, globose capsule. The seedlings are small, green, and have a single leaf.
Cultivation and Propagation
Stelis opercularis can be propagated by division or by seed. It prefers partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. It is hardy to USDA Zone 8.
Where to Find Stelis opercularis
Stelis opercularis is found in the tropical and subtropical regions of Central and South America, including Mexico, Colombia, Venezuela, and Peru.
Stelis opercularis FAQ
What is the scientific name of Stelis opercularis?
Stelis opercularis
What is the common name of Stelis opercularis?
No common name
What is the natural habitat of Stelis opercularis?
Tropical and subtropical moist montane forests
Species in the Stelis genus
Stelis acostaei,
Stelis acuifera,
Stelis aemula,
Stelis aeolica,
Stelis affinis,
Stelis alba,
Stelis alfredii,
Stelis allenii,
Stelis amparoana,
Stelis angustifolia,
Stelis anolis,
Stelis antennata,
Stelis antioquiensis,
Stelis aperta,
Stelis aprica,
Stelis aquinoana,
Stelis argentata,
Stelis ascendens,
Stelis aspera,
Stelis atra,
Stelis atrorubens,
Stelis atroviolacea,
Stelis attenuata,
Stelis aviceps,
Stelis barbae,
Stelis barbuda,
Stelis bicallosa,
Stelis bicornis,
Stelis bigibba,
Stelis binotii,
Stelis biserrula,
Stelis bogotensis,
Stelis braccata,
Stelis bracteata,
Stelis bractescens,
Stelis bradei,
Stelis brenesii,
Stelis brevilabris,
Stelis brevis,
Stelis brittoniana,
Stelis butcheri,
Stelis caespitosa,
Stelis calceolaris,
Stelis calothece,
Stelis calotricha,
Stelis campanulifera,
Stelis campos-portoi,
Stelis capillaris,
Stelis carcharodonta,
Stelis carnosiflora,
Species in the Orchidaceae family
Aa fiebrigii,
Aa hartwegii,
Aa hieronymi,
Aa leucantha,
Aa lorentzii,
Aa macra,
Aa achalensis,
Aa maderoi,
Aa mandonii,
Aa matthewsii,
Aa microtidis,
Aa paleacea,
Aa argyrolepis,
Aa riobambae,
Aa rosei,
Aa schickendanzii,
Aa sphaeroglossa,
Aa trilobulata,
Aa weddelliana,
Aa aurantiaca,
Aa calceata,
Aa colombiana,
Aa denticulata,
Aa erosa,
Aa figueroi,
Aa lozanoi,
Aa lehmannii,
Acampe carinata,
Acampe cephalotes,
Acampe ochracea,
Acampe pachyglossa,
Acampe praemorsa,
Acampe joiceyana,
Acampe hulae,
Acanthophippium bicolor,
Acanthophippium chrysoglossum,
Acanthophippium curtisii,
Acanthophippium eburneum,
Acanthophippium gougahense,
Acanthophippium javanicum,
Acanthophippium lilacinum,
Acanthophippium mantinianum,
Acanthophippium parviflorum,
Acanthophippium pictum,
Acanthophippium splendidum,
Acanthophippium striatum,
Acanthophippium sylhetense,
Acanthophippium curtisii,
Achlydosa glandulosa,
Acianthera aculeata,