Hehkutulpilla

Hehkutulpilla is a genus of flowering plants in the family Orchidaceae. These orchids are native to the Americas, found from Mexico to South America. The name "hehkutulpilla" is derived from Greek words meaning "glowing slipper," a reference to the distinctive shape of their lip.

These plants are characterized by their terrestrial habit, meaning they grow in soil rather than on other plants. They typically possess one to a few leaves that emerge from a rhizome or pseudobulb. The leaves are often ovate or lanceolate and can be either evergreen or deciduous depending on the species and its native habitat.

The flowers of hehkutulpilla are its most striking feature. They are generally solitary or borne in small racemes and exhibit a wide range of colors, including shades of pink, purple, white, and green. A defining characteristic is the slipper-shaped labellum, or lip, which is often inflated and may be adorned with intricate patterns, veins, or hairs. This specialized lip often plays a role in attracting specific pollinators.

Hehkutulpilla species are found in various environments, from moist forests and savannas to more open, rocky areas. Their cultivation can be challenging, requiring specific conditions that mimic their natural environment, including appropriate soil, humidity, and light levels. The genus is relatively small, with a few dozen recognized species.