Lepanthes erinaceaThis is a lovely little epiphyte is endemic to Costa Rica and it was registered as early as 1855. Lepanthes is a large genus with over 700 species that can be found across the Antilles and through Central- to South America. The lip is actually so highly specialized that it requires its own terminology to describe. An absolutely fascinating species that I am just beginning to explore, but I can definitely sense a new addiction coming on. Good thing most species are very small.

Lepanthes erinacea grows at altitudes of 1300 to 1800 meters and is a pretty tolerant species that can handle both low light and brighter locations as well as extended dry periods. The small yellow and orange flowers are no larger than 3 millimeters (dear husband chuckled when I handed him a magnifying glass to look at it…), but it is a vigorous bloomer presenting several flowers in succession on an inflorescence gently placed on top of the broad leathery leaf. The common name for this species is the Hedgehog-Like Lepanthes, I need to work on my macro skills so I can get a better closeup of the flower, then you would see why. I grow this one mounted on EpiWeb on the wetter side of the cool vivarium under medium light.