Prasophyllum elegantissimum
| Prasophyllum elegantissimum | |
|---|---|
| |
| In Erua | |
Scientific classification 
| |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Monocots |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Subfamily: | Orchidoideae |
| Tribe: | Diurideae |
| Genus: | Prasophyllum |
| Species: | P. elegantissimum
|
| Binomial name | |
| Prasophyllum elegantissimum Lehnebach 2025
| |
Prasophyllum elegantissimum,[1] commonly known as the elegant leek orchid,[2] is a species of orchid endemic to New Zealand. In Māori it is called manawa wairepo.[2] It is currently listed as Threatened - Nationally Vulnerable.[3]
Description
[edit]Prasophyllum elegantissimum is a terrestrial, perennial, tuberous, herb.[2] It is similar to Prasophyllum colensoi however the dorsal sepal has an apiculate tip.[2]
Taxonomy
[edit]It was first described in 2025 by Carlos Lehnebach.[1]
Distribution and habitat
[edit]Prasophyllum elegantissimum is endemic to New Zealand, and is found on the North Island, South Island, Stewart Island / Rakiura, and Auckland Island. It grows in habitats ranging from lowland to sub-alpine,[2] and flowers from December to February.
References
[edit]- ^ a b Lehnebach CA, Alderton-Moss J., Shepherd LD. 2025, A new species of Prasophyllum (Orchidaceae) for New Zealand and lectotypification of P. colensoi. New Zealand Journal of Botany 1–23. https://doi.org/10.1080/0028825X.2025.2454582
- ^ a b c d e New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. "Prasophyllum elegantissimum".
- ^ de Lange PJ, Gosden J, Courtney SP, Fergus AJ, Barkla JW, Beadel SM, Champion PD, Hindmarsh-Walls R, Makan T, Michel P. 2024, Conservation status of vascular plants in Aotearoa New Zealand, 2023. Wellington: Department of Conservation.