thely

Thely refers to a genus of orchids in the family Orchidaceae. The name "thely" originates from the Greek word "thelys" meaning female, a reference to the appearance of the column of the flower, which resembles a female organ. These orchids are native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, with a distribution ranging from Mexico and the Caribbean down to South America.

Thely orchids are typically terrestrial or lithophytic, meaning they grow in soil or on rocks, respectively. They are characterized by their pseudobulbs, which are swollen stem structures that store water and nutrients. The leaves are usually solitary or borne in pairs, often ovate or lanceolate in shape. The inflorescences are erect or arching racemes bearing multiple flowers.

The flowers of Thely orchids are often small to medium-sized and exhibit a wide range of colors, including white, yellow, pink, and purple. The labellum, or lip, is typically the most prominent part of the flower and often has complex markings or structures that aid in attracting specific pollinators. Pollination mechanisms are diverse, with some species relying on bees, while others may be pollinated by flies or even hummingbirds.

The genus Thely was first described by botanist John Lindley in 1840. While once a more widely recognized genus, taxonomic revisions have led to some species being reclassified into other genera, such as Habenaria or Habenariopsis. Conservation status varies among the remaining species, with some facing threats from habitat loss and overcollection.