Habitat and Ecology
​Sphyrospermum haughtii is a rare, miniature epiphytic or lithophytic shrublet belonging to the Ericaceae (Andean blueberry) family. It is endemic to Ecuador, known primarily from the western slopes of the Andes mountains, where it is found in wet montane cloud forests at high elevations, typically around 1,200 to 2,400 metres. The plant grows on moss-covered branches or rock faces, thriving in an environment of cool temperatures, constant moisture from fog and mist, and excellent air circulation. The species is considered rare and likely endangered due to its limited geographic range and threats to its specialised habitat.
​Description
​This plant is a delicate, trailing or scandent (scrambling) perennial with slender stems that can reach up to 50 cm in length. The leaves are small, thick, and succulent (fleshy), giving them a durable quality; they are typically ovate in shape and sometimes display a slight concave (inward curving) form. The attractive flowers are borne singly on slender, pendent stalks from the leaf axils. The blooms are small, urn-shaped (urceolate), fleshy, and typically a pale greenish-yellow colour, sometimes with a subtle pink or red flush. The most notable feature is the fruit: a spherical, translucent white berry that is large relative to the size of the leaves, adding a luminous, 'pearl-like' quality to the plant.
​Cultivation
​Sphyrospermum haughtii is a cool-growing, demanding collector's plant that requires extreme care and stable conditions, making it best suited for a cool terrarium, vivarium, or specialised cool greenhouse in the UK. It requires bright, filtered light and must be shielded from direct, intense midday sun. The substrate must be acidic (\text{pH 5.5-6.5}) and extremely open, mimicking its epiphytic habitat; use a chunky mix of orchid bark, perlite, and a minimal amount of synthetic peat or sphagnum moss. The medium must be kept evenly and consistently moist; the fine roots are intolerant of drying out.
​Optimal Daytime Temperature: 18-24 C (64-75. F)
​Optimal Nighttime Temperature: A cool rest is mandatory for survival and growth, ideally 10-15 C (50-59 F).
​Very high humidity (70-85%+) and excellent air circulation are crucial. Water with tepid, soft water (rainwater is strongly recommended). Feed very sparingly during active growth.
​Unique Features
​This small shrublet is highly valued by collectors for its miniature, trailing habit and its stunning translucent, pearl-white berries that appear like crystalline jewels. The subtle, fleshy, greenish-yellow, urn-shaped flowers add an unusual dimension, and its status as a rare Ecuadorian endemic from the Andean cloud forests makes it a challenging yet prized acquisition for the dedicated enthusiast of rare Ericaceae.
​Specifications
​Plant Size: Small (20-20 cm) propagations from our stock plants
​Plant Family: Ericaceae
​Plant Passport: A Sphyrospermum haughtii B 140084 C [user input] D GB