Name: Andinia xenion (Luer & R.Escobar) Karremans & Mark Wilson

Synonyms: Pleurothallis xenion Luer & R.Escobar; Xenosia xenion (Luer & R.Escobar) Luer

Etymology: The genus name Andinia refers to the Andes, the genus's natural center of distribution.

First description: The species was described in 1983 by Carlyle A. Luer and Rodrigo Escobar as Pleurothallis xenion. The currently accepted combination Andinia xenion was published in 2017 by Adam Karremans and Mark Wilson.

Origin/Distribution: Colombia, particularly the Andean region of Boyacá.

Location/Habitat: Epiphytic in the moist highlands of the Colombian Andes, documented at approximately 3100–3200 m above sea level. Accordingly, the species prefers cool temperatures, high humidity, filtered light, and constant air movement.

Description and notes: Andinia xenion is a compact highland orchid from the Pleurothallidinae with a creeping growth habit, slender shoots, and individual narrow leaves. We best cultivate it mounted with a thin, moisture-retaining moss base or in a very airy, fine substrate. The roots should remain slightly moist year-round and not dry out completely. Cool nights and good air movement are particularly important; prolonged heat should be avoided.