Masdevallia coccinea 'Alba' – Pristine White Andean Orchid

Step into a world of pristine elegance with the stunning Masdevallia coccinea 'Alba'. While the species is typically a vibrant scarlet, this rare 'Alba' form presents a breathtaking contrast with its large, pure-white blooms. Native to the cool, high-altitude cloud forests of the Andes in Colombia and Peru, this orchid is a true collector's item, prized for its immaculate coloration and graceful, kite-like form. A jewel among orchids, it offers a distinct aesthetic that will stand out in any discerning collection.

Care Requirements

• Light: Medium to bright, filtered light. Avoid any direct sun, as this can easily scorch the delicate leaves.
• Temperature: Cool to intermediate growing. Ideal day temperatures are 18°C-24°C, with a significant drop to 5°C-16°C at night. It is critical to keep the plant cool, especially during summer.
• Watering: This species has no pseudobulbs and should never be allowed to dry out completely. Keep the potting medium perpetually moist. Use rainwater or distilled water, as it is sensitive to mineral buildup from tap water.
• Humidity: High humidity is essential, ideally above 70%. Use a humidifier or a humidity tray and ensure good air movement with a fan to prevent fungal issues.
• Potting: Use a fine, moisture-retentive mix such as pure sphagnum moss or a mixture of fine bark and perlite. Repotting should be done annually to prevent media breakdown.
• Fertilizing: Fertilize with a weak, balanced solution (1/4 strength) at every second or third watering.

Genetic History & Provenance

• Parentage: n/a (Species Orchid)
• Hybridizer: Nature
• Registration: n/a
• Awards: While the species has received numerous awards, specific clones have been awarded by bodies like the American Orchid Society (e.g., Masdevallia coccinea alba 'Blanca' AM/AOS).
• Note: A wild-type species collected from its native habitat in Colombia and Peru.

Flowering and Maturity Profile

• Season: Primarily spring and summer. With proper care and cool conditions, it can flower multiple times a year.
• Bloom Size: Flowers are quite large for the genus, reaching approximately 5-7 cm in length on long, thin scapes held well above the foliage.
• Coloration: Pure, unblemished white with a crystalline texture. The long tails are also white.
• Fragrance: Not significantly fragrant.
• Growth Habit: Compact, clump-forming plant with tufts of slender, dark green leaves.

Why Buy This Plant?

• Exclusivity: The 'Alba' form of Masdevallia coccinea is a rare and highly sought-after plant, offering an exclusive addition to any collection.
• Dramatic Display: The stark contrast of the large, luminous white flowers against the dark foliage makes for a dramatic and eye-catching display.
• Belgrave Quality: Our cool-growing orchids are cultivated with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring a healthy, vigorous specimen that is well-established and ready to thrive in your collection.