This large growing Stanhopea species is one of our most impressive species when in flower with 70cm long flower spikes carrying lots of large very fragrant flowers.

The species is native to Central America down to Colombia and Venezuela  growing in wet forests from 800 to 2700m. As you can see the plant is large with leaves 1m long from large bulbs and we grow plants in large baskets with daily watering to keep plants damp all year round. The flower spikes grow vertically downward from the newer bulbs. The flowers have a strong pleasant smell which, to me, brings to mind white chocolate flavoured furniture polish – not that that exists!

The flowers only last a few days but we love the ephemeral wonder of a really grand stanhopea.