Oak Tree

Common Name: Kashinokiran (Oak Orchid) - Named for its tendency to grow on oak trees, but it can also be found on other trees.
Scientific Name: Gastrochilus japonicus (Makino) Schltr.
Distribution: Honshu (west of Chiba Prefecture), Shikoku, Kyushu, Ryukyu Islands. Also found in Jeju Island, Korea.
Ecology and Morphology: Grows in warm temperate to subtropical regions, epiphytically on evergreen broad-leaved trees and cedars in humid environments.
Numerous slender roots emerge from a short stem, attaching to the bark. Leaves are densely arranged in two rows, resembling a spread fan.
Flower stalks emerge from the leaf axils and hang down below the leaves, bearing 4-10 flowers. The sepals and lateral petals of the flowers are pale yellowish-green, gradually becoming redder after opening. The labellum is white with reddish-brown spots.
Flowering Period: July - September