ເອື້ອງກະເປົາໃບລາຍຂາວ / Callus Slipper Orchid

Neither of these species have been satisfactory identified yet. Bai lai khao has 10-20 x 3-5 cm oblong leaves that are thick and hairy, with a sponge-like texture. Their upper blades are light green while the lower-surface is dark green with lighter spots. The plant’s solitary flower is erect, purple with green lines, 10-20 cm tall, and hairy. Its fibrous roots are 10-20 cm long. Bai lai daeng is similar but the surface of its upper leaf blade is dark green with lighter spots while the lower blade is dark purple-green. Its flowers grow in clusters of one to three, and are yellow with purple dots. These terrestrial sympodial orchids are collected for their ornamental and medicinal value, and are believed to help reduce aging. The leaves are blended in water which is then drunk, mainly by women who have recently given birth. Plants are dug out or their rhizomes pulled from the ground. About 1-2 kg per person per day can be collected through journeys of 4-6 km into the forest. The flowers are found in low light intensity habitat on leaf litter and on mossy rocks near streams. Both species range across Southeast Asia and are mainly found in evergreen and deciduous forests in mountainous areas on moist clay sandy or sandy soils. Reproduction in the forest is limited as the whole plant is collected. Plants need to be dried to maintain medicinal qualities.