Phalaenopsis modesta

Phalaenopsis modesta is a species of orchid endemic to Borneo.^[1] The specific epithet modesta, from the Latin modestus, means unassuming, moderate or modest.^[2]

Phalaenopsis modesta in situ

Phalaenopsis modesta
flower detail
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Plantae
Clade:	Tracheophytes
Clade:	Angiosperms
Clade:	Monocots
Order:	Asparagales
Family:	Orchidaceae
Subfamily:	Epidendroideae
Genus:	Phalaenopsis
Species:	P. modesta
Binomial name
Phalaenopsis modesta J.J.Sm.
distribution of Phalaenopsis modesta
Synonyms
Phalaenopsis modesta f. alba O.Gruss & Roeth Polychilos modesta (J.J.Sm.) Shim Phalaenopsis modesta subsp. sabahensis Fowlie nom. nud., ex icon. Phalaenopsis modesta var. bella Gruss & Röllke

Description

This epiphytic species is usually found at the base of the phorophytes. The plants have 1–4 elliptic-obovate, glossy, 23 cm long and 6 cm wide leaves. Fragrant, white flowers with purple transverse barring are produced on pendent, branched or unbranched inflorescences. The labellum lacks trichomes. Flowering occurs from September to November and from May to June.^[3]

Ecology

Phalaenopsis modesta occurs at elevations of 50–900 m above sea level.^[3]

Taxonomy

The variety Phalaenopsis modesta var. bella Gruss & Röllke is suspected of being a hybrid of Phalaenopsis javanica and Phalaenopsis modesta.^[3]
Phalaenopsis modesta is said to be closely related to Phalaenopsis violacea based on floral characteristics.^[4] This is not supported by genetic evidence.^[5]

Conservation

This species has been categorized as vulnerable (V)^[6]