Name: Houlletia tigrina (Linden) Lindl.

Synonyms: Paphinia tigrina Linden; Houlletia landsbergii Linden & Rchb.f.

Etymology: The genus Houlletia was named after the French gardener and plant collector M. Houllet, who collected plants of this group in Brazil. The Latin specific epithet tigrina means “tiger-like” and refers to the distinctive striped or spotted pattern of the flowers.

First description: Published in 1851 by Jean Jules Linden as Paphinia tigrina; John Lindley transferred the species to the genus Houlletia in 1853.

Origin/distribution: Central America to Venezuela and Ecuador; native to Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, and Ecuador.

Growing conditions/habitat: A pseudobulbous epiphyte of humid rainforests and cloud forests at elevations of about 800–2,200 m. Because of this elevational range, the species grows in cool to warm-temperate conditions. For cultivation, we recommend approximately 16–25 °C during the day and 11–18 °C at night, with somewhat cooler nights for plants from higher elevations. High humidity and good air movement are important.

Description and notes: Houlletia tigrina produces ovoid to pear-shaped, slightly ribbed pseudobulbs with large, pleated leaves. The inflorescences emerge basally, hang down, and bear a few large, waxy-looking, often fragrant flowers with a striking tiger-like pattern. Because of the hanging inflorescences, we recommend growing it in a basket or hanging pot. During active growth, water generously, preferably with soft water, and keep the substrate evenly slightly moist. Once the pseudobulbs have matured, water somewhat less, but do not allow them to dry out for long. Humidity of around 65–85% with good air movement is beneficial. A coarse, airy bark mix with moisture-retentive components is suitable as a growing medium.