Name: Trichopilia laxa (Lindl.) Rchb.f.
Synonyms: Pilumna laxa Lindl.; Trichopilia Kienastii Rchb.f.
Etymology: laxa= loose / lax — refers to the loosely pendulous, few-flowered inflorescence of this species.

First description: Originally described in 1844 by John Lindley as Pilumna laxa; transferred to the genus Trichopilia by Heinrich Gustav Reichenbach (Rchb.f.) in 1858.
Origin / Distribution: Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela.
Location / Habitat: Grows epiphytically in humid, montane cloud and rainforests of the Andes at altitudes of approx. 600 to 2,200 meters. It thrives in shaded to semi-shaded locations with high humidity year-round.
Description & Notes: Trichopilia laxa is a medium-sized orchid with strongly laterally compressed, oblong-elliptical pseudobulbs, each bearing a single, terminal, leathery, and lanceolate leaf. The loosely pendulous or creeping inflorescence arises from the base of the mature pseudobulb and bears several delicate, fragrant flowers. The petals (sepals and petals) are narrow, slightly wavy, and show a pale green to cream-colored tint, while the funnel-shaped, rolled lip is white to pale pink.

In cultivation, this species requires a temperate to cool climate with a noticeable drop in temperature at night. As it does not experience extreme dry seasons, the substrate (e.g., fine to medium bark with added moss) should be kept evenly moist during the growth phase, without causing waterlogging. Due to the pendulous inflorescences, cultivation in hanging baskets or mounting is often advantageous. High humidity and good ventilation are essential.