FOX-TAIL ORCHID Rhynchostylis retusa (L.) Blume

Orchids are known for their beautiful, long-lasting blooms. Fossil evidences reveal that the Orchids existed in the Earth even before 100 million years. Orchids either grown as ground orchids or epiphytic orchids that grow on the host trees. These epiphytic orchids have special type of roots termed as velamen roots, through which the orchids absorb required atmospheric moisture and nutrients. Few species of Orchids known also for their medicinal uses besides being stunningly beautiful. One such epiphytic orchid is Rhynchostylis retusa (L.) Blume. It is popularly known as Fox-tail orchid.