Peristeria pendula Hook.
Epiphytic orchid with pseudo-bulbs to 15cm, leaves to 45cm and pendant 4-6-flowered racemes of fragrant, pale yellow flowers, spotted red and brown. Reportedly shy to flower in cultivation. [RHSD, Hortus].
Horticultural & Botanical History
‘This fine plant unquestionably belongs to the curious Genus Peristeria, of which only one species (P. elata, Bot. Mag. t. 3116,) was hitherto known, and that is a native of Panama. The present one was imported with many other rarities from Demerara, by John Allcard, Esq. in whose stove at Stratford Green it flowered in January of the present year, and who kindly sent us the drawing here engraved, from the pencil of V. Bartholomew, Esq. Associate of Painters in Water Colours.’ [BM t.3479/1836].
History at Camden Park
Peristeria pendula was included in a consignment of plants sent from Kew by John Bidwill in November 1843 [AJCP]. It seems likely that these plants were forwarded to William Macarthur at Camden but there is no direct evidence of this plant being grown there.
Notes
Published Jan 27, 2010 - 02:19 PM | Last updated Jan 27, 2010 - 02:24 PM
Peristeria pendula Hook. | BM t.3479/1836 | BHL
| Family | Orchidaceae |
|---|---|
| Category | |
| Region of origin | South America |
| Synonyms | |
| Common Name | Pendulous dove flower |
| Name in the Camden Park Record |
Peristeria pendula |
| Confidence level | high |
