Habitat and Ecology
This unidentified Lepanthes species is a miniature epiphytic orchid native to Colombia, Lepenthes are generally found in the montane cloud forests of the Andes, often at elevations between 1,000 and 3,000 metres. Like most of the genus, it is adapted to a microclimate of constant cool temperatures, high atmospheric humidity (70+), and consistent air movement. It grows anchored to mossy bark or twigs, absorbing moisture from frequent fog and mist (horizontal precipitation).
Description
As a typical Lepanthes, this species is a caespitose (clump-forming) miniature that produces a dense cluster of slender stems (ramicauls). These stems are sheathed by the plant’s defining feature: lepanthiform sheaths, which are minute, ribbed, tubular structures with conspicuously ciliated (hairy) margins. Each ramicaul is topped by a single, small, leathery, elliptic leaf.
The flowers are the main spectacle, although they are minute (often under 5 mm) and require magnification to appreciate fully. They are borne successively on a fine raceme that is typically held along the back of the leaf. The blooms are renowned for their intricate, bizarre, and non-resupinate (not twisted) structure. The colour is likely to be vivid, such as rose, orange, or purple-red, often with translucent sepals. The key identifying feature is the complex lip (labellum), which is usually bilobed and highly sculpted, often possessing a minute, hair-like appendix (a structure used to deceive tiny male fungus gnats into pollination).
Cultivation
This unidentified Lepanthes species from Colombia should be treated as a cool-growing orchid that is very sensitive to heat and desiccation, making it a demanding subject strictly for a cool greenhouse or specialist orchidarium/cabinet in the UK.
Light: Low to moderate bright, filtered light (never direct sun).
Substrate: Best mounted on cork or tree fern fibre with a pad of sphagnum moss, or potted in a fine, airy mix of moss and perlite.
Watering: Must be kept constantly moist or wet; roots should never dry out. Water frequently with tepid, soft water (rainwater or reverse osmosis water).
Humidity: Extremely high humidity (75–90%) is mandatory. Excellent air circulation is also required to prevent fungal issues.
Temperature:
Daytime: 18-25 C (64-77 F)
Nighttime: A cool drop is essential for survival and blooming, ideally 12-16 C (54-61 F).
Unique Features
This orchid belongs to one of the most species-rich and miniature genera in the Neotropics. Its appeal lies in the microscopic complexity and bizarre morphology of its flowers. Successfully cultivating this delicate, cloud-forest species is considered a testament to the grower's ability to maintain a stable "cloud forest" microclimate.
Specifications
Plant Size: as seen in the picture
Plant Family: Orchidaceae
Plant Passport: A Lepanthes B 140084 C [buyer to use number of the plant label] D GB
