The genus Maxillaria is one of the most widespread of New World orchids and contains some wonderful species which, over the past few years, have been eagerly sought by species enthusiasts. Of this diverse group of plants, one of the most singlular and charming is the selected species for this month, Maxillaria pseudoreichenheimiana. I first saw this species among Philip Altmann's plants and, on first glimpse, thought Philip had either flicked a paint brush with white paint over it or, with some horror, that he was in possession of a plant with an interesting new virus! Thankfully, I was wrong on both counts and I now grow the species as one of my special favourites. The illustrations accompanying this article, both by David Banks, clearly illustrate the most obvious feature of the species, that which caused my initial concern - the wonderful leaves, dark green splashed with white/silver dots. However, before we look at this specific plant, a little about the genus to which it...
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