Lepanthes aculeata

A striking miniature epiphyte native to the cloud forests of Ecuador, notable for its broadly ovate, densely papillose leaves that give the plant a velvety, textured appearance. Tiny flowers emerge on short ramicauls directly above the leaf surface, with ciliate-margined sepals and a compact, intricate lip.

• Light: Bright indirect light with 50–70% shade cloth; avoid direct sun, which can damage the delicate, textured foliage.
• Temperature: 52–70°F (11–21°C); an Intermediate-Cool grower that benefits from a slight temperature drop at night.
• Humidity: 75–90%; high humidity is essential — use a humidity tray or grow in a terrarium with good airflow.
• Watering: Keep roots consistently moist but never waterlogged; water frequently in small amounts with excellent drainage.

Additional Notes

Best mounted on cork bark or grown in a small net pot with fine sphagnum moss to maintain moisture around the roots. 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.