Ceratandra is a genus endemic to South Africa of six species of tuberous geophytes in the Orchidaceae family. Flowers are densely crowded together on the top of the single flowering stem. Leaves are grass-like and bunched at the base and sometimes on the stem.
Ceratandra atrata (L.) T.Durand & Schinz is a widespread species that occurs from Ceres to Knysna. Growing to 30 cm tall and flowering in the first year after a fire in late spring to early summer, this species is found in moist loamy soils in coastal mountains. It has upright soft leaves and yellow flowers. Buds have reddish tips. Photos from the book Plants of the Klein Karoo courtesy of Jan and Anne Lise Schutte-Vlok.
Ceratandra globosa Lindl. occurs from the Cedarberg Mountains to the Eastern Cape. Growing to 30 cm tall and flowering in the first year after a fire in summer, this species has white and pink flowers. Photo from the book Plants of the Klein Karoo courtesy of Jan and Anne Lise Schutte-Vlok.
