Over half of the 20,000 species of this plant are epiphytic, and the roots of these members are covered with a thick layer of epidermis called velamen which helps prevent water loss from the exposed roots.  
Over half of the 20,000 species of this plant are epiphytic, and the roots of these members are covered with a thick layer of epidermis called velamen which helps prevent water loss from the exposed roots.  A type of monocot, it has 3 sepals and 3 petals, the middle of which is folded into an intricate structure called a labellum and which gives decorative varieties such as the ladies' slipper its name. FTP, what is this plant, the original source of vanilla?
Over half of the 20,000 species of this plant are epiphytic, and the roots of these members are covered with a thick layer of epidermis called velamen which helps prevent water loss from the exposed roots.  
orchid