Name: Porroglossum amethystinum (Rchb.f.) Garay

Etymology: The genus name Porroglossum refers to the characteristic shape of the lip in this genus. The epithet amethystinum means “amethyst-colored” and refers to the purple coloration.

First description: The species was published in 1967 by Leslie A. Garay as Porroglossum amethystinum, based on an earlier name by Heinrich Gustav Reichenbach.

Origin / Habitat: Ecuador, as an epiphyte in moist tropical forests.

Description & Care: A small, compactly growing orchid with striking, amethyst-colored flowers. We cultivate it in shade to bright indirect light, with high humidity and good air circulation. We keep the substrate evenly moist and avoid allowing it to dry out completely. We keep it cool to moderate, at around 12–20 °C.