Name: Trichosalpinx pergrata

Synonyms:

• Stellamaris pergrata
• Pleurothallis pergrata
• Pleurothallis falcipetala
• Trichosalpinx falcipetala
• Tubella pergrata

Origin: Costa Rica, Panama, and Colombia

First described: 1923 by Ames (as Pleurothallis pergrata; transferred to Trichosalpinx by Luer in 1983)

Description: Trichosalpinx pergrata is a small, epiphytic orchid native to the Neotropical regions of Central and South America. Its natural range extends across Costa Rica, Panama, and Colombia, where it occurs in humid mountain forests.

The species inhabits mid- to high elevations, occurring at altitudes between 1,000 and 2,700 meters. In this natural habitat, it grows as a small epiphyte adapted to cool to moderately warm conditions.

The plant has an upright habit, with slender stems (ramicauls) typically surrounded by several fringed or ciliate tubular leaf sheaths. A single, upright, leathery, elliptic leaf sits at the tip of each stem, narrowing toward its base.

The short inflorescence emerges near the tip of the shoot and produces single or a few small flowers in succession. The tiny flowers, about 3 to 5 mm in size, are usually reddish and may have fine stripes.

For successful cultivation, it is recommended to grow the plant in cool to temperate conditions, with good air circulation and shade to partial shade. A fine, airy epiphytic medium in a small container is suitable; alternatively, the plant can be mounted on a suitable substrate, keeping it consistently moist but not waterlogged.