Lepanthes gemmula

A miniature species from the cloud forests of Ecuador, bearing successive flowers with lanceolate pubescent sepals marked by a prominent central stripe, butterfly-shaped bilobed petals, and a small intricate lip. The entire flower surface has a distinctive papillose texture that catches the light.

• Light: Bright indirect light with 50–70% shade cloth; avoid direct sun, which can scorch the delicate foliage.
• Temperature: 55–72°F (13–22°C); an Intermediate grower with a minimum tolerance around 50°F (10°C) at night.
• Humidity: 75–90%; mount or grow in a well-ventilated enclosure and mist frequently to prevent desiccation.
• Watering: Keep roots consistently moist but never waterlogged; water daily when mounted, or every 2–3 days in fine sphagnum or bark mix.

Additional Notes

Its compact size and high humidity requirements make it an excellent candidate for terrarium or Wardian case cultivation. Best grown mounted on cork or tree fern, or in a small net pot with fine sphagnum moss. Ships bare root, well-established.