A cool-growing miniature epiphyte native to the cloud forests of Ecuador, notable for its large, orbicular leaves with a dense, velvety pubescent texture in soft olive-green tones. A tightly braided zigzag spike emerges directly from the leaf surface, bearing successive flowers with translucent sepals and a vivid trilobed lip in contrasting yellow, orange, and deep purple.
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Light: Bright indirect light with 50–70% shade cloth; avoid direct sun, which can damage the delicate velvety leaf surface.
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Temperature: 48–65°F (9–18°C); a Cool grower that requires consistently cool temperatures and steady air movement.
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Humidity: 75–90%; high humidity is essential to maintain the lush pubescent foliage and support continuous blooming.
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Watering: Keep roots evenly moist; water frequently in small amounts with excellent drainage to prevent root rot.
Additional Notes
Best mounted on cork bark or grown in a small net pot with fine sphagnum moss to maintain root moisture and aeration. A closed terrarium or enclosed glass container makes an excellent environment for this species, though it can also thrive in any humid, well-ventilated setup. Ships bare root, well-established.