Masdevallia davisii (species)

Masdevallia davisii, 'the orchid of the sun', is a cold-growing species from Peru, found at elevations of 2,600 to 4,000 metres as a lithophyte or terrestrial on rocky outcrops near the tree line. Described by Reichenbach in 1874 from material collected by Walter Davis near Cusco, it became a favourite in European collections before all but disappearing. It was a genuine "lost orchid", not reintroduced to cultivation until the late 1970s. The Incas knew it as qoriwaqanki ("golden waqanki") for its resemblance to the red M. veitchiana.

About this plant

• Flowering: A single fragrant flower held high on a slender, successive spike. New flowers appear from the same inflorescence over time rather than all at once.
• Flowers: Brilliant golden-yellow, deep orange within, striking against the compact foliage.
• Plant: Miniature to small-growing, with a single leathery leaf per short growth.

Growing conditions

• Temperature: Cool to cold, 2°C to 16°C. It needs cool nights and is not suited to warm climates, so avoid sustained warmth.
• Light: Bright filtered light. No direct midday sun.
• Water: Keep evenly moist at all times. It has no pseudobulbs, so do not allow it to dry out.
• Humidity and air: Humidity of 60% or higher, with constant gentle air movement. Rainwater or RO water is preferred.

What you'll receive

An established division of flowering size. Buds and flowers cannot be guaranteed at time of shipping due to seasonal and environmental factors.