Epiblastus Schlechter
in K, Schumann & Lauterbach, Nachtraege zur Flora der deutschen Schutzgebiete in der Südsee (1905), 136

Introduction: A genus of about fifteen species confined to New Guinea and the S.W. Pacific.

Derivation of genus name: Greek epiblastos (sprouting on or again). Refering to the growth habit of the genus

Type species: Epiblastus ornithidioides Schltr.

Characteristics of the genus: Leaves linear, flat, but at the base folded along the midrib. The inflorescence is enveloped by the leaf base. Flowers are small, waxy and range from scarlet-red to reddish-orange.

Number of species in New Guinea: Well known from the highlands of Papua New Guinea is E. basilis

Photos: Epiblastus species

Species line drawing: Epiblastus ornithidioides Schltr.
drawn by Neville H.S. Howcroft

Habitat: These epiphytic or terrestrial herbs are often rather large plants and occur from about 300 m above sealevel upwards. Found in deep shade growing on moss-covered tree trunks or on the forest floor.

Conservation status: not known