Earina is a small genus of epiphytic orchids in the family Orchidaceae (order Asparagales), comprising around seven recognised species distributed across islands of the south-western Pacific Ocean. The genus is centred on New Zealand, where its two most familiar species — E. autumnalis and E. mucronata — are endemic or near-endemic residents of lowland to montane rain forests.
New Zealand species grow as epiphytes on mossy tree trunks and branches, or occasionally as lithophytes on rocks and cliff faces. They are characterised by extensive creeping rhizomes firmly anchored to their substrate, from which arise pendulous, wiry, cane-like stems up to 1.5 m long with broadly lanceolate, strap-shaped leaves. The flowers are small — typically under 1 cm across — but are produced in such profusion along branched racemose panicles that a large flowering specimen can be a striking sight in the forest. Earina autumnalis (Easter orchid or raupeka), the best-known species, bears waxy white flowers with a bright yellow-based labellum and a strong, pleasant fragrance, blooming from late summer into autumn. Earina mucronata flowers mainly in spring and lacks fragrance. Beyond New Zealand, the genus extends to New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Fiji, and Samoa.
Etymology
The genus name Earina is derived from the Greek word earinos (εαρινός), meaning "of spring" or "springtime" — reflecting the spring-flowering habit of some species. The common species epithet autumnalis (Latin for "of autumn") distinguishes E. autumnalis, which blooms in the autumn months.
Distribution
Earina is native to the south-western Pacific: the two most widespread New Zealand species (E. autumnalis and E. mucronata) occur on the North Island, South Island, Stewart Island/Rakiura, and the Chatham Islands. Further species are restricted to New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Fiji, and Samoa. Within New Zealand, the genus spans coastal to montane zones wherever suitable mossy forest remains.
Ecology
New Zealand Earina species grow as epiphytes on the trunks and branches of forest trees, or as lithophytes on rocks, cliff faces, banks, and moss-covered logs. Seeds are minute and wind-dispersed. Plants grow readily in semi-shaded conditions and require consistent moisture; in cultivation they perform well in hanging baskets or strapped to tree trunks with standard orchid mix.
