Wild Orchids ‹‹ Go Back

There are two species of Vanilla orchids, which are found in the country. The above species is found in the wet, intermediate and dry zones of the country and the other Vanilla moonii, a rare endemic species, is confined to the tropical wet ever green forests up to an altitude of 600 meters. The conservation status of the species under reference is regarded as “Vulnerable” (National Red List 2012).
Vanilla walkerae is a species protected under the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance as amended by Act No. 22 of 2009.

The above species is found in South India as well. It is a leafless epiphytic orchid that produces beautiful large white flowers in May and June. In Wilpattu I have seen the flowers of this species at Thimbiri Wila, Maradanmaduwa, Kumbuk Wila, Borupan Wila and Demata Wila. The body of the plant is a thick greenish climber that attaches it self to its host tree or bush with tiny roots.