Habitat and Ecology
​Pleurothallis aggeris is a small-to-medium-sized, caespitose epiphytic or terrestrial orchid native to the Andes of Colombia (Huila department) and Ecuador, extending into Northern Peru. It is a cool-to-warm growing species found in very wet montane cloud forests at a significant range of elevations, typically between 500 and 2,400 metres. The species name aggeris means "of a dam or embankment," possibly referencing its discovery site near the Paute Dam in Ecuador. It thrives in high humidity, consistently moist conditions, and requires good air circulation.
​Description
​This orchid is a clump-forming perennial that produces slender, wiry stems (ramicauls) enveloped by sheathing bracts. Each ramicaul is topped by a single, erect, leathery, oblong-elliptic leaf. The inflorescence is a short, successively-flowering raceme (spike) that emerges from the base of the leaf. The spike can carry numerous blooms over a long period, typically flowering in spring and winter. The individual flowers are minute (around 1 cm wide) but are notably colourful, often appearing in shades of purple. The sepals are typically translucent or pale, sometimes with stripes, and the prominent lip is small and often ornamented with a complex, small callus. The flowers are generally long-lasting and are often described as having an unusual, delicate shape.
​Cultivation
​Pleurothallis aggeris is a relatively forgiving Pleurothallid, tolerating a wider range of temperatures than many high-altitude species, but still requires stable, moist conditions, making it best suited for a terrarium, humid cabinet, or shaded conservatory in the UK. It needs low to medium indirect light (shade to semi-shade); avoid all direct sun. Use a fine, well-draining epiphytic mix of bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite. The fine roots must be kept moist year-round and should not be allowed to dry out for long, though the medium must never be saturated.
​Optimal Daytime Temperature: 18-24 (64-75 F)
​Optimal Nighttime Temperature: A cooling drop is essential, ideally 12-16 C (54-61 F).
​High humidity (70%+) and good air circulation are necessary. Water frequently with tepid, soft water. Feed lightly (low-concentration liquid feed) during the growing season.
​Unique Features
​This orchid is prized by collectors for its miniature size and its ability to produce a long, continuous succession of tiny, brightly coloured flowers over several months. Its adaptability to a wider temperature range (cool-to-warm) compared to many other high-Andean Pleurothallis species makes it a slightly easier, yet highly rewarding, miniature for a controlled environment.
​Specifications
​Plant Size: as can be seen in the picture
​Plant Family: Orchidaceae
​Plant Passport: A Pleurothallis aggeris B 140084 C [user input] D GB