Name: Epidendrum ivan-portillae Hágsater & H.Medina
Etymology: The genus name Epidendrum means “growing on trees”. The specific epithet honors the Ecuadorian orchid grower and plant collector Iván Portilla.
First described: 2018 by Eric Hágsater and H. Medina.
Origin/distribution: Ecuador; also reported from neighboring Peru.
Habitat/environment: Epiphytic on densely moss-covered branches on the eastern slopes of the Andes, at elevations of approximately 800–1,200 m. We recommend warm-temperate conditions of approximately 16–26 °C, high humidity, bright filtered light and good air circulation.
Description and notes: A compact, creeping orchid with short stems, firm leaves and star-shaped, greenish flowers. It is vegetatively similar to Epidendrum porpax, but has larger, more open-looking flowers. Suitable for cultivation in a shallow medium or mounted on a moisture-retaining substrate; keep the roots evenly slightly moist, but do not waterlog.