Epidendrum pachygastrium

A compact epiphyte endemic to the cloud forests of Ecuador, bearing few-flowered racemes of highly unusual blooms with elongated, recurved sepals and an extraordinarily large, globose, inflated lip with a shiny, papillose-verrucose texture that dominates the flower entirely. The oversized lip emerges dramatically between broad, oval, leathery leaves, making this one of the most botanically distinctive species in the genus.

• Light: Bright indirect light with 40–60% shade cloth; avoid direct midday sun to prevent stress on the broad, leathery foliage.
• 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%; good air movement around the roots and stems is essential to prevent fungal issues.
• Watering: Water thoroughly and allow the medium to approach dryness between waterings; avoid standing water at the roots.

Additional Notes

Best grown mounted on cork or in a well-draining bark-based mix. Plants are shipped bare root and well established, ready to settle into their new growing environment.