Satyrium longicauda var. longicauda bracts pointing down

The tepals of this Satyrium longicauda var. longicauda flower seen in January near Qacha’s Nek are white apart from their faint pink upper parts. The rounded hood, narrowing at its opening, protects the reproductive parts of the flower, requiring a pollinator to enter for transacting its contribution and reward. The flap above the lip entrance is hairy.

Tepal margins display variable frilliness. The pair of long spurs at the back of each flower are visible on those shown in profile on the cylindrical spike.

The reflexed bracts with their glistening, membranous surfaces positioned below each flower are a prominent floral feature (Manning, 2009; Pooley, 1998; iNaturalist).