Name: Lepanthes hexapus Luer & R.Escobar
Synonyms:
Etymology: hexapus = six-footed — refers to the extraordinary structure of the two petals, each divided into three slender, thread-like segments, together resembling six small feet.

First described: 1984 by Carl A. Luer and Rodrigo Escobar in Orquideología (16: 144).
Origin / Distribution: Colombia to central Ecuador.
Location / Habitat: Growing epiphytically in moist cloud forests at elevations of approx. 850 to 2,100 meters. It thrives in cool to temperate climates with extremely high humidity year-round and constant, gentle air movement in the shaded undergrowth.
Description & Notes: Lepanthes hexapus is a fascinating miniature orchid with slender, upright shoots surrounded at the base by 5 to 6 fine, pubescent leaf sheaths (lepanthes-form sheaths). Each shoot bears a single, stiff-leathery, ovate leaf, which often features attractive purple venation. The dense inflorescence is shorter than the leaf and produces approx. 5 mm small, highly complex flowers one after another. The narrow sepals are largely free and finely serrated at the edges. The most striking feature is the three-parted, thread-like petals, which give the flower its characteristic, almost insect-like appearance.

In cultivation, this sensitive highland species requires constantly cool-temperate conditions and cannot tolerate prolonged summer heat. Since it has no storage organs, the substrate (preferably living sphagnum moss in a mounted culture on cork or fine bark) must never dry out completely. Consistently high humidity of over 80% and fine, continuous air circulation are absolutely essential to prevent rot and ensure healthy growth.