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Phrag pearcei is among the most compact of the south America slipper orchid species, growing to about 20 cms tall, with deep green grassy foliage that is attractive even when plants aren't in bloom. It forms clumps quickly, and can easily bloom in a 3 inch pot! The blooms are produced sequentially, five or more to a spike with each one lasting a few weeks. Flowers are 10 + cms from dorsal to petal tip. Plants can bloom year 'round, but blooms appear most frequently in the spring through summer months. This species is generally terrestrial, growing in dappled light and with constant moisture at the roots. Though it enjoys intermediate temperatures in its native habitat, it can tolerate high summer temperatures in the mid eighties. It will grow and bloom under fluorescent tubes. All phragmipediums need especially good quality water to grow well. Among its primary hybrids, are Green Hornet (x longifolium) and Carol Kanzer (x schlimii). This species is closely allied to Phrag ecuadorense, which some argue is simply a variety of Phrag pearcei.
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