Anathallis linearifolia
Some of our orchids are not much bigger than the moss that grows around them and Anathallis linearifolia is a true miniature species native to Brazil and Northern Argentina where it grows in cloud forest. This is a habitat we have explored and every morning the forest is dripping - even in the dry season.
Leaves are only 1cm long but flowers are relatively large and bourn in profusion every autumn.
We find plants do well mounted or in pots but we need to ensure that plants are not smothered by moss as the species really enjoys cool, wet, shaded conditions which really suits moss!
Despite its tiny size the species grows relatively quickly and will cover its cork mount. The flowers are also sweetly scented.
Until recently the species was known as Pleurothallis linearifolia and has been moved to Anathallis in the phylogenetic rationalising of Pleurothallidinae based on molecular studies over the last 25 years.