Ridleyella Schlechter
in Fedde, Repert. Beih. 1(1913), 948.

INTRODUCTION: A monotypic genus from the island of New Guinea.

DERIVATION OF GENUS NAME: The genus was established by Rudolf Schlechter in 1913 for a single species, Ridleyella paniculata Schltr. Dedicated to Henry N. Ridley, one of the most active British botanists who described many new species of orchids.

TYPE SPECIES: Ridleyella paniculata Schltr.

CHARACTERISTICS OF GENUS: An epiphytic herb, vegetatively and florally somewhat simulating a Acriopsis, espcially when not in flower. This species from the mountain forests of New Guinea is allied to the subtribe Thelasis Blume. The dark-purplish flowers borne in profusion on branching inflorescenses have an unusual appeal.

NUMBER OF SECTIONS AND/OR SUBSECTIONS IN GENUS: Ridleyella paniculata Schltr.

NUMBER OF SPECIES IN NEW GUINEA: one

View photo: Ridleyella paniculata

HABITAT:The species is found in on the edge of the rain forest where there is plenty of sun light at an elevation of about 600 - 1200 m a.s.l.

CONSERVATION STATUS: this species is rare and difficult to find even in known localities and therefore not considerd under any threat

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