Name: Gastrochilus obliquus (Lindl.) Kuntze

Etymology: Gastrochilus combines Greek words for “belly” and “lip,” referring to the pouch-like lip; obliquus means “oblique.”

Origin/Distribution: The Himalayan region, southern China, and parts of mainland Southeast Asia.

Location/Habitat: A compact epiphyte of moist mountain forests. Grow in partial shade to bright light, with high humidity and constant air movement. The roots should be moistened frequently, but allowed to dry quickly afterward. Intermediate temperatures of around 14–25 °C are favorable.

Description and Notes: Gastrochilus obliquus has a short monopodial stem with firm leaves. Short, often pendulous inflorescences bear several small, yellowish to greenish flowers marked with brown and featuring a distinctive pouch-shaped lip. The species is particularly well suited to mounted culture or very airy small pots.