A distinctive species from the cloud forests of South America, producing arching, branched spikes with medium-sized, well-spaced flowers of a bold, spidery habit. The elongated, lanceolate, and strongly reflexed sepals and petals bear dense, irregular leopard-like blotching, while the unusually reduced, tubular lip tapers to a prominent white tip — a striking structural contrast that makes this species immediately recognizable.
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Light: Bright indirect light with 40–60% shade cloth; avoid direct sun, which can scorch the foliage.
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Temperature: 55–75°F (13–24°C); an intermediate to cool grower that benefits from a nighttime temperature drop to encourage blooming.
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Humidity: 65–85%; good air circulation is essential to prevent fungal issues at higher humidity levels.
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Watering: Water thoroughly and allow the medium to approach dryness between waterings; never allow roots to sit in standing water.
Additional Notes
Best cultivated in a fine bark or sphagnum moss mix in a well-draining container or mounted on cork. Plants are shipped bare root and well established.