Another of our mini stelis species today and a great example of the way in which tiny flowered species can have a big impact. The plant shown is in a 10cm basket and leaves up to 5cm. the flower spikes are 9cm long.

It was during our first expedition to Brazil in 2000 that we made first contact with stelis species and this is one of the species found in the Mata Atlantica around our base in Macae de Cima. The habitat is wet forest from 900-1400m  in the low trunk area so enjoys good humidity and we find it loves a shady spot in Cool Americas (min 12C) and lots of water.

I do feel that we are very lucky to have explored so many orchid habitats on school expeditions. It is no surprise that standing at the foot of a tree full off a favourite orchid species flowering is a great help in understanding how to grow orchids well.