Epidendrum polyanthogastrium

A compact creeping epiphyte endemic to the cloud forests of Ecuador, forming dense, low mats of short stems bearing oval, fleshy leaves with a striking bicolored texture — deep purple on the underside. Compact apical corymbs of small, star-shaped flowers emerge from the stem tips, displaying narrow, acuminate sepals and petals with a dark brown center contrasting against a yellow-green ground.

• Light: Bright indirect light with 40–60% shade cloth; the bold bicolored foliage remains ornamental year-round, so avoid direct sun to preserve leaf texture and color.
• Temperature: 45–65°F (7–18°C); a cool grower that thrives with cool nights and consistent temperature fluctuations between day and night.
• Humidity: 70–85%; consistent moisture around the roots is essential given the compact, mat-forming habit.
• Watering: Water thoroughly and allow the medium to approach dryness between waterings; avoid prolonged dryness, which can stress the fleshy leaves.

Additional Notes

Best grown mounted on cork or tree fern to accommodate its creeping, mat-forming habit, or in a shallow, very open bark mix. Plants are shipped bare root and well established, ready to adapt quickly to their new growing environment.