Prasophyllum elegantissimum,Lehnebach CA, Alderton-Moss J., Shepherd LD. 2025, A new species of Prasophyllum (Orchidaceae) for New Zealand and lectotypification of P. colensoi. New Zealand Journal of Botany 1–23. https://doi.org/10.1080/0028825X.2025.2454582 commonly known as the elegant leek orchid, is a species of orchid endemic to New Zealand. In Māori it is called manawa wairepo. It is currently listed as Threatened - Nationally Vulnerable.de Lange PJ, Gosden J, Courtney SP, Fergus AJ, Barkla JW, Beadel SM, Champion PD, Hindmarsh-Walls R, Makan T, Michel P. 2024, Conservation status of vascular plants in Aotearoa New Zealand, 2023. Wellington: Department of Conservation.
Description Prasophyllum elegantissimum is a terrestrial, perennial, tuberous, herb. It is similar to Prasophyllum colensoi however the dorsal sepal has an apiculate tip.
Taxonomy It was first described in 2025 by Carlos Lehnebach.
Distribution and habitat Prasophyllum elegantissimum is endemic to New Zealand, and is found on the North Island, South Island, Stewart Island / Rakiura, and Auckland Island. It grows in habitats ranging from lowland to sub-alpine, and flowers from December to February.
References