| Vanilla walkeriae | |
|---|---|
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Monocots |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Subfamily: | Vanilloideae |
| Genus: | Vanilla |
| Species: | V. walkeriae |
| Binomial name | |
| Vanilla walkeriae | |
Vanilla walkeriae is a species of vanilla orchid native to India and Sri Lanka. It grows in forest and jungle habitat. It is considered to be a rare species. [1]
This species is an epiphyte with thick, succulent, rooting stems up to 15 m (49 ft) long that climbs on trees and shrubs. The lance-shaped leaves are up to 3.7 cm (1.5 in) long. The inflorescence is a large raceme of many flowers. The flowers can be up to 6.8 cm (2.7 in) wide and have wavy-edged white petals. The fruit is a thin capsule up to 15 cm (5.9 in) long. [1]
The scientific name commemorates Anna Maria Walker of Sri Lanka with whom Robert Wight collaborated.
The plant is used in the traditional veterinary medicine practices of the Irulas in India. Stem paste is fed to cattle to treat fever and as a nutritional supplement. [2]
The species is threatened by habitat destruction. [2]
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