Abstract

Of the 186 orchid species reported so far from Kerala, 109 are epiphytic and 77, including 5 saprophytes, are terrestrial in habit. Around 50 of the species are endemic to South India. While 26 species are endangered or presumably extinct. Dendrobium mabelae, Liparis wrayii, Pomatocalpa mannii and Smithsonia maculata represent new records to this region. Thirteen species are of medicinal value. Further exploration and conservation in situ and ex situ of Kerala orchids is emphasized