Name: Stanhopea wardii G.Lodd. ex Lindl.

Etymology: The genus name Stanhopea honors Philip Henry Stanhope, 4th Earl Stanhope. The specific epithet wardii is a commemorative name.

Origin/Distribution: Mexico, Central America, and northern South America.

Location/Habitat: This species grows epiphytically in humid tropical to montane forests. We recommend bright to semi-shaded, filtered light, high humidity, and very good air circulation. Temperate to warm conditions of approximately 15–27 °C during the day and 10–19 °C at night are favorable. During active growth, the plant needs regular, generous watering.

Description and Notes: Stanhopea wardii produces robust pseudobulbs, each with one large, pleated leaf. The large, fleshy, usually intensely fragrant flowers appear on downward-growing inflorescences and often have yellowish base colors with contrasting darker spots. We prefer to grow this species in an open basket so the inflorescences can grow freely downward. A coarse, airy substrate that retains a little moisture is ideal. During growth, we water and fertilize regularly, using water that is as soft as possible; once the new growths have matured, we reduce watering somewhat.