by Chuck Nishihira
Rhodospathas are a very overlooked genus for use in the terrarium. Many pretty ones come from Ecuador and Peru. Some were even introduced en masse via tissue culture over a decade ago, but are still not very often seen in terrariums. They are relatively slow-growing, and are either small or willing to stay in the juvenile form. The new growths are usually colorful, adding a bit of color without overwhelming the plantings. Several cuttings growing up a branch or background would be stunning. All these traits put together make their absence even more puzzling.
This species from Peru with the light pink new growth adds a delicate, but pretty range of color for this genus. This new growth matures into a slightly iridescent green leaf in medium light. When grown in a higher light, the pretty pink turns into a pale orange before turning into a brighter green leaf. Hopefully, in time we will see more and more of these making their way into hobbyists tanks.
