NEW SOUTH WALES FLORA ONLINE

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Synonyms: Dendrobium dolichophyllum D.L.Jones & M.A.Clem. APNI*
Dockrillia dolichophylla (D.L.Jones & M.A.Clem.) M.A.Clem. & D.L.Jones APNI*

Description: Epiphyte or epilith with stems spreading to pendent, wiry, rooting mostly at the base of the sympodium but also from more apical stems, with 1 leaf at apex; roots smooth, creeping and aerial.

Leaves pendent, linear, terete, 20–100 cm long, 4–6 mm diam, succulent, smooth.

Inflorescences 3–8 cm long, 1–5-flowered. Sepals and lateral petals yellow with red or purple striations at the base; dorsal sepal 25–50 mm long, 2.5–3.5 mm wide; labellum cream with strong reddish striations, 25–35 mm long, 4–4.5 mm wide. Column 3–4 mm long; column foot 5–6 mm long.

Flowering: July–October

Distribution and occurrence: Grows on trees and rocks in rainforest; between 800 and 1200 m alt., north from the Dorrigo area.
NSW subdivisions: NC
Other Australian states: Qld

AVH map***

Dendrobium teretifolium comprises a range of morphotypes, and these have been formally recognised as varieties or species. While there is no doubt that plants of D. teretifolium in south-eastern Australia may differ in flower colour, number of flowers per raceme, and may grow on different host tree species, whether those differences reflect separate species status has not been addressed empirically. Therefore we adopt a conservative stance on the circumscription of D. teretifolium which treats morphotypes in New South Wales as varieties. Publication of empirical evidence supporting separate species status for these varieties will result in their being recognised as such.