Name: Stanhopea shuttleworthii

Etymology: The genus name Stanhopea honors Philip Henry Stanhope, 4th Earl Stanhope. The specific epithet shuttleworthii is an honorific.

Origin/Distribution: Andean region of northwestern South America.

Location/Habitat: The species grows epiphytically in moist montane forests. We recommend bright to semi-shaded, filtered light, high humidity, and excellent air circulation. Temperate conditions of approximately 13–24 °C during the day and 8–17 °C at night are favorable. During active growth, the plant requires regular and generous watering.

Description and Notes: Stanhopea shuttleworthii produces robust pseudobulbs, each with a large, pleated leaf. The large, fleshy, and often fragrant flowers emerge on downward-facing inflorescences and have the characteristically complex structure of the genus. We prefer to grow the species in an open basket so that the inflorescences can grow downward without obstruction. A coarse, airy substrate that retains some moisture is ideal. During growth, we water and fertilize regularly, using water that is as soft as possible; after the growths mature, the amount of water can be reduced somewhat.