Name: Lepanthes ribes xanthina Luer
Etymology: ribes = currant (referring to the berry-like appearance of the mature fruit capsules or floral structures); xanthina = yellow / yellowish — referring to the namesake yellow coloration of this subspecies.
First description: The type species was described in 1976 by Carlyle A. Luer in Selbyana (3: 14)
Origin / Distribution: Ecuador.
Location / Habitat: Growing epiphytically in moist montane cloud and fog forests of the Andes at elevations of approximately 1,200 to 1,800 meters. There it inhabits shady, permanently moist spots on moss-covered branches and trunks in an intermediate microclimate.
Description & Notes: Lepanthes ribes subsp. xanthina is a fascinating miniature orchid with upright, slender stems enveloped by the typical funnel-shaped, lepanthiform sheaths. The single leathery leaf is ovate-elliptic. The delicate, successively flowering inflorescence usually develops flat against the back of the leaf. Unlike the reddish-purple type species, this subspecies is distinguished by its namesake bright yellow to yellow-orange flowers, which reveal a beautiful, intricate structure under a magnifying glass.

In cultivation, this rarity requires intermediate conditions and does not tolerate extreme summer heat. As it has no pseudobulbs, the substrate must be kept evenly moist throughout the year. Due to its tiny stature and high humidity requirements, it is perfectly suited to permanent cultivation in terrariums and display cases. It grows best mounted on cork with a layer of live Sphagnum moss, with continuous, gentle air movement.

In vitro culture: You will receive a flask containing 4 young plants. The plants are generally already large enough to be removed from the flask. After opening, very carefully remove the nutrient medium from the fine roots with lukewarm water and place the young plants on moist Sphagnum or in a very fine, airy substrate. For the first few weeks, we recommend very high humidity, intermediate temperatures, protected light, and gentle, continuous air movement. Keep the young plants consistently slightly moist and never allow them to dry out completely.