Leptotes tenuis

Introducing the Leptotes tenuis, a captivating orchid species hailing from the mist-kissed mountains of southeastern Brazil, where it thrives at elevations ranging from 2310 to 3300 feet. Nestled within the states of Espirito Santo, Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, and Minas Gerais, this miniature wonder graces the landscape with its petite stature, terete leaves standing up to 2.5 inches tall, and delicate flowers measuring a mere 0.6 inches in width.

In its natural habitat, Leptotes tenuis finds its sanctuary in the enchanting mountains, shrouded in nightly mists at elevations of 700 to 1000 meters. A warm to cool growing epiphyte, it boasts small fusiform-cylindrical pseudobulbs that host a singular, apical, erect to slightly curved, fleshy, subterete, and deeply grooved leaf. Come winter and spring, a spectacle unfolds as it graces us with nodding, fragrant flowers on an apical, pendant, 1 1/4 to 2-inch long inflorescence, showcasing one to two blossoms.

Cultivating the Leptotes tenuis is a gratifying endeavor, one that thrives when mounted on a tree fern. Embrace a regimen of cool to warm temperatures with a touch of light shade, ensuring consistent watering during growth periods and a more restrained approach during dormant phases. Elevate the humidity levels to replicate its natural habitat, creating an optimal environment for this cool to intermediate grower.

Our experiences with this remarkable orchid indicate its resilience when mounted, allowing roots to dry promptly. Providing moderately bright light year-round, coupled with a steady supply of water and diluted fertilizer, has yielded remarkable results. In its native lands, rainfall persists throughout the year, with a subtle reduction during winter. Remarkably, Leptotes tenuis has shown remarkable adaptability, thriving without a pronounced dry rest period.

This is a blooming size plant in a 3” pot, about 1 to 2 years to bloom, grown from seed, limited!

For those opting to grow this botanical treasure in a pot, we recommend a relatively small container paired with a well-drained medium. This meticulous approach ensures the perfect conditions for Leptotes tenuis to flourish, mirroring the delicate balance of its Brazilian home. Elevate your orchid collection with the Leptotes tenuis, a testament to the wonders of nature and the joy of successful cultivation.