Habitat and Ecology
 
​Lepanthes terpsichore is a miniature, specialized epiphytic orchid that is endemic to Ecuador (specifically El Oro province). It is a cool-to-cold growing species, found in wet montane cloud forests at very high altitudes, typically ranging from 1,850 to 2,400 metres. The habitat is characterized by constant cloud cover, high wind, and perpetual moisture. It grows anchored to mossy tree branches, relying on this stable, saturated atmosphere for its survival.
​Description
​This orchid is a miniature, caespitose (clump-forming) perennial that produces slender, suberect stems (ramicauls) enclosed by the characteristic lepanthiform sheaths that often have ciliated (hairy) margins. Each ramicaul is topped by a single, small, thickly coriaceous (leathery), elliptic leaf. The leaves are often suffused with purple and may appear slightly pendent. The flowers are minute (around 5 mm wide) but highly complex, borne successively on a fine raceme that lies over or along the back of the leaf. The species is named after Terpsichore, the Greek Muse of dance, alluding to the intricate, dancing appearance of its tiny floral structure. The sepals are typically translucent yellow, while the petals are minute, bilobed, and transversely expanded. The lip is complex, with narrowly oblong, pubescent (hairy) blades that embrace the column.
​Cultivation
​Lepanthes terpsichore is a challenging cool-to-cold growing orchid that requires extremely stable, cool conditions. It is only suitable for a cool greenhouse or high-altitude orchidarium in the UK. It needs low to medium indirect light and must be kept shielded from any direct sun. It is essential to grow it mounted on cork, tree fern fibre, or fine bark with a pad of sphagnum moss. The substrate/mount must be kept constantly moist or wet at all times; it must never dry out.
​Optimal Daytime Temperature: 18-22^{\circ}\text{C} (64-72^{\circ}\text{F})
​Optimal Nighttime Temperature: Cold temperatures are mandatory for survival and growth, ideally 10-15^{\circ}\text{C} (50-59^{\circ}\text{F}).
​Extremely high humidity (80%+) and excellent, constant air circulation are critical to prevent rot and promote flowering. Water frequently with tepid, soft water (rainwater is required). Feed monthly with a highly dilute orchid fertiliser.
​Unique Features
​As an Ecuadorian endemic found only at high altitudes, this is a highly coveted micro-miniature jewel for the most dedicated collectors. Its appeal lies in its intricate, almost microscopic floral structure and the attractive purple suffusion of its leaves and stems. Successfully cultivating this delicate, cloud-forest species is considered a testament to an orchid grower's mastery of cool-growing, high-humidity environments.
​Specifications
​Plant Size: (user input)
​Plant Family: Orchidaceae
​Plant Passport: A Lepanthes terpsichore B 140084 C [user input] D GB