In 1886 a total of one hundred and ten species were known. The center of distribution is in the Asian tropics but they are also found in the northern temperate zones. The small to medium-sized flowers are produced in colours ranging from white, yellow, green to orange and purple.
Flowers often have strong, unpleasant odours.
The large number of species has been separated in to four sub-genera by Schlechter and these are again separated by sections. The medium-sized plants grow in various situations from rain forests and moist locations in open forests, on rocks and in open sites. Liparis spectabile Liparis sp. All drawings and photos are subject to copyright. Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.