Name: Lycaste cruenta Lindl.

Etymology: The genus name Lycaste was chosen by John Lindley after a figure from Greek mythology; cruenta means "blood-red" and refers to the reddish markings on the flower.

First description: In 1843 by John Lindley.

Origin/Distribution: The species is native to Central America.

Location/Habitat: We cultivate Lycaste cruenta in intermediate conditions at about 14–24 °C, with bright filtered light, high humidity, and good air circulation. During active growth, we keep the airy substrate consistently moist.

Description and notes: The deciduous species forms robust pseudobulbs, large pleated leaves, and yellow to yellow-green, often contrastingly marked flowers. After the leaves drop, we significantly reduce watering, but do not allow the pseudobulbs to shrivel significantly.