Name: Stanhopea oculata (G.Lodd.) Lindl.

Etymology: The genus name Stanhopea honors Philip Henry Stanhope; oculata means “having eyes” and refers to the conspicuous dark eyespots on the flowers.

Origin/Distribution: Mexico and Central America.

Location/Habitat: We grow this species under intermediate conditions at around 13–26 °C, with high humidity, bright filtered light, and very good air movement. We water generously during active growth.

Description and Notes: The large, fleshy, usually strongly scented flowers display striking dark eyespots. Since the inflorescences grow downward, we prefer to grow the plant in an open basket with a coarse, airy, slightly moisture-retentive medium. We water a little more sparingly once the growths have matured.