Hymenorchis Schlechter
in Fedde, Repert. Beih. 1(1914), 994

Introduction: There are only seven species in this genus of small epiphytes belonging to the Sarcanthinae.

Author and derivation of genus name: The genus name was chosen on account of the very thin delicate nature of the flowers from the Greek hymen (membrane) and orchis (orchid).

Type species: Hymenorchis saccata Schltr. or Hymenorchis javanica (Teijsm. & Bien.) Schltr. Basionym: Occeaclades javanica Teijsm. & Bien.

Characteristics of genus: The remarkable toothing of the fleshy leaves and slitting of the leaf sheaths was so noteworthy to Schlechter that on that basis alone he would have established a new genus. The keeled sepals of the flowers reminded him of those in the genus Microtatorchis Schltr.

Photo: Hymenorchis species

Habitat: All are mist-forest epiphytes, growing on tall trees at altitudes from 1000 - 2200 m.

Conservation status: not known