Name: Sarcochilus Cholita Cuencana
Etymology: The name “Cholita Cuencana” refers to a traditional female figure from the Cuenca region of Ecuador, the home of the registering breeder.
First description: Registered in 2024 by Ecuagenera. It is a cross between SarcochilusKulnura Spice × Sarcochilus Fairy.
Origin / Distribution:
Cultivated hybrid (the parent species originally come from the temperate to cool regions of eastern Australia).
Description & Notes:
Sarcochilus Cholita Cuencana is a modern, compact hybrid that is prized for its exceptional flower quality. The plant grows monopodially with fleshy, dark green leaves. It produces dense inflorescences covered with numerous star-shaped flowers. In terms of color, it often impresses with vibrant magenta or red tones, which frequently feature a contrasting pattern or a lighter center.

In cultivation, it requires a well-draining, rather coarse substrate (e.g., pine bark or a mixture with lava rock), as the roots require plenty of oxygen and are sensitive to rot. Humidity should be moderate to high (50–70%). A pronounced drop in temperature at night in autumn and winter promotes flower induction in spring. Since it has no pseudobulbs, the substrate should never be completely dry for extended periods, but can dry out slightly between waterings.

Location/Cultivation Conditions: Cool to intermediate at around 12–25 °C, bright filtered light, and very good air circulation. Cultivate in coarse bark, water regularly, and allow the substrate to dry out slightly between waterings.