Name: Phragmipedium besseae 'Chiguinda'

Synonyms: Paphiopedilum besseae

Etymology: The genus name Phragmipedium is derived from the Greek phragma ("partition, screen") and pedion ("shoe"). The epithet besseae honors Elizabeth Locke Besse, who was involved in the discovery of the species. 'Chiguinda' refers to a well-known locality type from Ecuador.

First description: The species was described in 1981 by Calaway H. Dodson and Janet Kuhn.

Origin / Habitat: Southern Ecuador to northern Peru. Phragmipedium besseae grows lithophytically in moist tropical habitats, at approximately 1000–1500 m; the Chiguinda type originates from Ecuador.

Description & Care: Compact lady slipper orchid without pseudobulbs, with fan-shaped, leathery leaves and an upright flower spike. The flowers are bright red to scarlet. We keep it consistently moist, with good air circulation and bright, indirect light. The substrate should not dry out completely. We cultivate it at approximately 15–27 °C.