Habitat and Ecology
​Sobralia mucronata, commonly known as the Sharp-Tip Sobralia, is a relatively small, herbaceous epiphytic or terrestrial orchid native to Central America (Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Costa Rica) and Northern South America (Colombia, Ecuador). It is found in wet forests and montane cloud forests at a moderate range of elevations, typically between 500 and 1,500 metres. This habitat provides consistent moisture and high humidity, with the plant growing on mossy tree trunks or in debris-rich soil, where its roots can stay damp but not waterlogged.  
​Description
​This orchid is one of the more petite members of the genus, typically growing as a tufted perennial with slender, erect, cane-like stems reaching up to 30 cm (1 foot) in cultivation, though sometimes taller in the wild. The stems are covered in sheathing leaf bases and bear stiff, hard, prominently veined leaves along their length. The species name mucronata refers to the distinct, sharp, terminal points (mucros) found on the tips of the leaves, floral bracts, and column wings. The flowers are terminal, produced singly, and are typically pure white or pale yellow, often cupped, with a bright yellow or orange area in the centre of the lip. Like other Sobralia species, the large flowers are ephemeral (lasting only a single day) but emerge successively over the summer season.
​Cultivation
​Sobralia mucronata is an intermediate-to-warm growing orchid that requires constant moisture to thrive. It needs bright, indirect light or partial shade; high light is beneficial but must be filtered to prevent scorching of the leaves. It should be grown in a moisture-retentive, yet open, terrestrial mix (e.g., fine bark, coir, and synthetic peat or leaf mould). The substrate must be kept consistently moist—it is intolerant of drying out completely. High humidity (60-80%) is strongly preferred and will help the plant thrive and flower.  
​Optimal Daytime Temperature: 21-29^{\circ}\text{C} (70-85^{\circ}\text{F})
​Optimal Nighttime Temperature: A small drop is acceptable, ideally 13-16^{\circ}\text{C} (55-61^{\circ}\text{F}).
​Feed regularly (fortnightly during the growing season) with a balanced liquid fertiliser. Due to its sensitivity to root disturbance, repotting should be avoided unless absolutely necessary.
​Unique Features
​This orchid is a desirable miniature species known for its charming white, ephemeral blooms which give a burst of bright colour throughout the summer. The key attraction for the collector is the stiff, hard foliage with its distinctive sharp, pointed tips (mucros), providing a unique texture and form in a genus known for soft, reed-like growth. Despite the short flower life, its ease of care (compared to larger Sobralia) and consistent flowering make it a rewarding addition to a humid display.
​Specifications
​Plant Size: (user input)
​Plant Family: Orchidaceae  
​Plant Passport: A Sobralia mucronata B 140084 C [user input] D GB