Ceratandra is a genus of terrestrial orchids in the family Orchidaceae (order Asparagales). It is classified within subfamily Orchidoideae, tribe Orchideae, and subtribe Coryciinae. The genus was described by John Lindley in the work of F.A. Bauer and J. Lindley, and it comprises six accepted species, all of which are endemic to South Africa. Two heterotypic synonyms exist: Ceratandropsis (Rolfe) and Evota (Lindl.) Rolfe. The six recognized species are Ceratandra atrata, C. bicolor, C. globosa, C. grandiflora, C. harveyana, and C. venosa. These are terrestrial orchids native to the Cape Floristic Region and surrounding areas of South Africa. Like other members of subtribe Coryciinae, they are characterized by their distinctive floral morphology adapted for pollination by specialized insects. The genus is noted in major orchid taxonomic references including Genera Orchidacearum (Pridgeon et al.) and the World Checklist of Selected Plant Families (Kew).
Distribution
All six species of Ceratandra are endemic to South Africa. The genus is restricted to the southern African region, occurring within the Cape Floristic Region and adjacent areas.
Taxonomy
Ceratandra is placed in subtribe Coryciinae (tribe Orchideae, subfamily Orchidoideae) within the orchid family Orchidaceae. The genus was established by John Lindley (published as "Lindl. in F.A.Bauer & J.Lindley"). Two heterotypic synonyms are recognized: Ceratandropsis Rolfe and Evota (Lindl.) Rolfe. GBIF records 6 descendant species for the genus. The genus is referenced in the authoritative Genera Orchidacearum series (Pridgeon et al., Oxford Univ. Press) and the World Checklist of Selected Plant Families maintained by Kew.
