Pleurothallis ripleyi

A small epiphyte endemic to the cloud forests of Ecuador, immediately recognizable by its elongated, terete leaf from whose surface the tiny flowers emerge directly. The broadly ovate, concave sepals are deep burgundy-purple with a striking blue-violet iridescence, giving each bloom a jewel-like, metallic quality rarely seen in the genus.

• Light: Bright indirect light with 50–70% shade cloth; avoid direct sun exposure.
• Temperature: 50–68°F (10–20°C); a Cool to Intermediate grower. Tolerates brief dips to 45°F (7°C) if kept dry.
• Humidity: 75–90%; maintain consistently high humidity with good air movement.
• Watering: Water thoroughly and allow the mount or medium to approach dryness between waterings; avoid prolonged root saturation.

Additional Notes

Best grown mounted on cork or tree fern to accommodate its terete leaf habit and preference for excellent air circulation. A slight nighttime temperature drop encourages blooming. Plants are shipped bare root and well-established.