Masdevallia fuchsii

Masdevallia fuchsii is found in Peru, on the eastern slopes of the Andes, growing as cloud forest epiphytes at about 1,700 meters (5,600 feet (1,700 m) to 2,500 meters (8,200 feet). The orchid-rich forest at the higher elevations in which these were found has been destroyed for agriculture. This species can bloom at most any time of the year. Best grown in pots using an open, fast-draining medium with materials that retain some moisture. Grow best if repotted yearly, doing so in the late winter or early spring, but may be done at any time if it does not interfere with flowering. Water and fertilizer may be reduced in the winter, but never let all the plants dry out completely.

 Photographer: Ron Parsons (www.flickr.com/photos/rpflowershots)

Grower: Jeff Tyler/In Situ Orchids

Info: Charles Baker culture sheet (www.orchidculture.com)