Name: Lepanthes thalia Luer & Hirtz

Etymology: The genus name Lepanthes is derived from the Greek lepis ("scale") and anthos ("flower"). The epithet thalia honors Thalia, the muse of comedy in Greek mythology.

First description: The species was described in 1996 by Carlyle A. Luer and Alexander Hirtz.

Origin / Habitat: Ecuador, Esmeraldas Province, in humid forests at approximately 800 m. It grows epiphytically and prefers warm, humid conditions.

Description & Notes: Miniature orchid with slender shoots and a narrow, upright leaf. The very small flowers appear densely crowded and successively on a fine inflorescence on the upper side of the leaf; they reach about 3 mm. We cultivate it in shady to bright indirect light, with high humidity, good air circulation, and consistent moisture. We keep it warm, at approximately 18–26 °C.