Sphyrospermum Haughtii

A rare epiphytic member of the tribe Vaccinieae within the Ericaceae (blueberry family), described by Albert Charles Smith in 1953 from Ecuador's Bolívar province at 2,400 meters and known from only a handful of wild collections. The genus is distributed through the cloud forests of Mexico and tropical South America. Like its relatives Ceratostema and Macleania, it is a compact pendant epiphyte with small, ovate, succulent-when-fresh leaves bearing thickened, recurved margins, producing small flowers followed by berried fruit. Among the easier Neotropical blueberries to cultivate.

• Light: Bright indirect light with some gentle morning sun; supports healthy growth and bloom production. Avoid harsh direct sun.

• Soil: Acidic epiphytic mix of peat, perlite, and pine bark, or mounted; performs well in small pots or hanging baskets. Excellent drainage essential.

• Temperature/Humidity: Cool to intermediate temperatures between 50-75°F with meaningful day-to-night differential — cool nights encourage flowering; humidity of 70%+ supports the best growth.

• Watering: Allow the top 1-2" of medium to dry between waterings — susceptible to root rot in persistently wet conditions. Use soft water to avoid mineral buildup; never waterlog.

• Fertilizer: Feed monthly with an ericaceous low-pH formula during active growth; light, consistent feeding suits the sensitive root system. Reduce in winter.