measure, as it is believed that it is an ineffective tool against smuggling as it slows the introduction of wild species in the legal market. The Peruvian government, in an effort to officialize the trade of P. kovachii and reduce its illegal extraction, licensed some plant nurseries for the propagation of this species. Due to the reduction of its population by overcollection and its small area of extent, Phillip Cribb (orchid expert from Kew Gardens) and the IUCN have assigned Phragmipedium kovachii the critically endangered conservation status. Cultivation Phragmipedium kovachii will thrive in any moist growing medium with calcium content similar to the soil of its habitat, always watching for the pH levels. Fertilizers must be applied carefully especially in young plants, as fertilizers contain salts. Light requirements are medium, avoiding intense light especially when young; mature individuals can tolerate more light. Being an orchid of high elevations, temperature must be in the range of its natural habitat. References Further reading Damian, M. L., Williams, N. H., Whitten, W. M. (2005). Phragmipedium kovachii: molecular systematics of a New World orchid. Orchids 74(2): 132–137. Decker, G. (2007). "Phragmipedium kovachii". Orchids. American Orchid Society. 76 (11): 826–833 http://www.ottawaorchidsociety.com/september_2007.pdf External links kovachii Endemic orchids of Peru Terrestrial orchids Flora of Peru