Abstract
Platystele apoloae, a new orchid species is here described and illustrated. It was discovered in semi-deciduous premontane forest from Southwestern Ecuador, in the Amotape-Huancabamba zone. Information about its distribution, habitat, phenology, and conservation status is provided. The new taxon is compared with P. carl-lueriana, P. catiensis, P. cornejoi, P. ovalifolia, P. pedicellaris and P. propinqua, species to which it is morphologically similar.