Name: Lepanthes clareae Luer & Hermans

Etymology: The genus name Lepanthes is derived from the Greek words lepis ("scale") and anthos ("flower") and refers to the fine, scale-like flower structures. The specific epithet clareae honors Clare Hermans.

First description: 1995 by Carlyle A. Luer and Johan Hermans in The Orchid Review, volume 103, page 62.

Origin/Distribution: Costa Rica.

Location/Habitat: Epiphytic in humid tropical mountain and oak forests; the type collection comes from the Cerro de la Muerte at an altitude of approximately 2,750 m. The species is adapted to cool, highly humid conditions. We recommend temperatures of about 10–20 °C, shaded to moderately bright light, and gentle, constant air movement.

Description and notes: This small to medium-sized miniature orchid forms slender ramicauls, each with a narrow elliptical leaf. The dense, distichous inflorescences can become longer than the leaf and produce small, finely structured flowers in succession. The coloration ranges from yellow and orange to darker shades of red. Fine, airy, and moisture-retaining substrate or sphagnum is well-suited; the sensitive roots must never dry out completely. Soft water, very high humidity, and good air circulation are especially important for long-term healthy cultivation.