Name: Pabstiella tripterantha

Synonyms: Pleurothallis tripterantha

Etymology: The genus name Pabstiella honors the Brazilian botanist and orchid researcher Guido Frederico João Pabst. The specific epithet tripterantha is formed from Greek word elements meaning “three,” “wing,” and “flower,” and refers to the characteristic shape of the flower.

Origin/Distribution: Tropical South America.

Location/Habitat: The species grows epiphytically in humid montane forests, where it benefits from high humidity, regular rainfall, and filtered light. We recommend partial shade to bright, indirect light, high humidity, and continuous gentle air movement. Temperate conditions of approximately 13–24 °C during the day and 9–17 °C at night are favorable. The fine roots should be kept evenly slightly moist, but well ventilated.

Description and Notes: Pabstiella tripterantha is a compact botanical miniature orchid from the Pleurothallidinae group. It forms slender, pseudobulb-free growths with small leaves and delicate, intricately detailed flowers. We prefer to grow the species mounted with a little moss or in a very fine, airy orchid substrate that retains some moisture. We use water that is as soft as possible, avoid allowing it to dry out completely, and ensure good air movement, especially when humidity is high.