Habitat and Ecology ​
 
Plutarchia portilliae is an extremely rare species of evergreen, terrestrial, or epiphytic shrub belonging to the Ericaceae family. It is known to be endemic to the high montane cloud forests and subpáramo regions of the Andes, specifically in Colombia and Ecuador. This plant is found at very high altitudes, often above 2,500 metres, where the climate is constantly cool, damp, and subjected to persistent fog and mist. This specialized habitat requires the plant to be sclerophyllous (having thick, hard leaves) to cope with intense, filtered light and high wind, yet still demand a humus-rich, highly acidic, and exceptionally well-drained substrate. ​
 
Description ​
 
This is a compact, slow-growing shrub with a characteristically sclerophyllous (hard-leaved) and somewhat gnarled habit. The leaves are small, coriaceous (leathery), and often appear bunched on the stems, giving the plant a rigid, neat structure. The flowers are the primary feature of the genus, borne in axillary fascicles (tight clusters) typically containing a few blooms. The corolla is a striking waxy, tubular shape, usually a shade of bright scarlet, crimson, or orange-red, often with a contrasting colour at the throat. These blooms are often subtended by small to large floral bracts, which can be brightly coloured themselves. The flowers are followed by small, inedible purple coloured berries typical of the Andean blueberry group. ​
 
Cultivation ​
 
Plutarchia portilliae is a challenging and highly specialist collector's plant due to its specific high-altitude requirements. It needs very bright, filtered light and excellent air circulation, avoiding direct, harsh midday sun. The growing medium must be acidic (pH 4.5-5.5) and exceptionally porous to ensure zero water retention, such as pure orchid bark, perlite, pumice rock, and a minimal amount of synthetic peat or coir. The medium should be kept consistently moist but never soggy. Extremely high humidity (80% or higher) is vital for its survival. ​Optimal Daytime Temperature: 15-20 C (59-68 F) ​Optimal Nighttime Temperature: A significant and essential cool-down period is required, ideally 8-12 C (46-54 F). ​This plant is best grown in a specialised, cool greenhouse or terrarium where temperature and humidity can be strictly controlled to mimic its high-altitude cloud forest habitat. Fertilize extremely sparingly with an ericaceous (acid-loving) feed. ​
 
Unique Features ​
 
As one of the rarest members of the genus Plutarchia and the newest to be described, this species is a trophy plant for the serious collector of tropical Ericaceae. Its compact, rigid, and sclerophyllous habit is architecturally distinct. The true appeal lies in its jewel-like, waxy, tubular flowers in intense red hues, which are often produced in abundance and contrast beautifully with the dark foliage. This is a plant for those who enjoy the challenges of cultivating rare, high-altitude Andean flora. ​
 
Specifications ​
 
Plant Size: established plants grown in coir ( volcanic rock) and with one + stems measuring 30 cm +.
Plant Family: Ericaceae ​
Plant Passport: A Plutarchia portilliae B 140084 C 15858 D GB