Name: Dracula chiroptera Luer & Malo

Etymology: The genus name Dracula means "little dragon" and refers to the mask-like flower. The specific epithet chiroptera refers to bats and alludes to the dark, bat-like appearance of the flowers.

First description: 1978 by Carlyle A. Luer and M. Malo.

Origin/Distribution: Colombia and Ecuador.

Location/Habitat: Epiphytic in humid Andean cloud forests, at approximately 1,600–2,000 m. The species prefers cool to intermediate conditions of about 10–21 °C, high humidity, shaded light, and constant air movement.

Description and notes: Dracula chiroptera has tufted, narrow leaves and striking, variably dark-patterned flowers with long sepal tails. The flowers can appear one after another on a single shoot. Since the flower spikes grow sideways to downwards, an open basket is particularly suitable. The fine, airy substrate should never dry out completely, while at the same time excess water must drain away quickly.