Disa stachyoides flower close-up

Only the two lateral sepals and the central white lip of a Disa stachyoides flower are visible here. Compare this photo of only the protruding, central floral bits to a full inflorescence where sometimes more than 40 flowers may appear in one spike.

Orchids are famous worldwide for their remarkable flowers. Also the many, often small-flowered South African orchid species present remarkable beauty. Details of colour and shape, sometimes enhanced by tricks of photography, merit scrutiny, especially when the flowering plant is encountered in nature (Pooley, 1998; Onderstall, 1984; Trauseld, 1969; iNaturalist).