SafePlants

Dockrillia linguiforme (Tongue Orchid)

Dockrillia linguiforme, commonly known as the Tongue Orchid, Button Orchid, or Tick Orchid, is a fascinating Australian orchid species appreciated for its unique morphology and delicate flowers.

Considerations for Pets

• This orchid possesses thick, succulent-like pseudobulbs.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Dockrillia linguiforme
• Common Names: Tongue Orchid, Button Orchid, Tick Orchid
• Synonyms:
  • Dendrobium linguiforme Sw.
  • Callista linguiformis (Sw.) Kuntze
• Original Description: Initially described as Dendrobium linguiforme by Swedish botanist Olof Swartz in 1800.
• Varieties:
  • Dendrobium linguiforme var. huntianum Rupp 1942
  • Dendrobium linguiforme var. nugentae

Distribution and Habitat

• This species is native to Australia.
• It is commonly found growing on Hawkesbury Sandstone in areas like Ku-ring-gai Chase.
• It often clings to rocks.

Morphological Characteristics

• Dockrillia linguiforme is an epiphyte or epilith.
• It features prostrate, wiry stems that root.
• Its common name "tongue-like Dendrobium" refers to its thick, succulent-like pseudobulbs.
• It produces clusters of snow-white flowers, approximately 1 inch in size, typically in late winter.
• It is a mat-forming epiphytic rock orchid, reaching about 0.4 meters in size.

Quirky Facts

• Dockrillia linguiforme holds the distinction of being the first Australian orchid to be botanically described.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• This orchid can be susceptible to slugs, snails, aphids, dendrobium beetles, mealybugs, and red spider mites.

Further Information

• Australian Plant Names Index (APNI)
• International Plant Names Index
• The Plant List
• IPNI
• NYBG Virtual Herbarium
• RHS (Royal Horticultural Society)