Masdevallia ignea 'Plush'

Masdevallia ignea 'Plush' is a selected clone of the fire-red Masdevallia species native to the Eastern Cordillera of Colombia, found at elevations of 2,600 to 3,800 metres. M. ignea is one of the great Masdevallia species — it has been used as a parent in an enormous proportion of the cool-growing hybrid work done over the past century, and for good reason. The species itself is striking: large, unspotted flowers in pure saturated red, carried well above the foliage on tall slender spikes. 'Plush' has been selected for the exceptional purity and depth of its colour and the broad, smooth form of its laterals. This is the first time we have offered divisions of this clone for sale.

What to expect

• Flowering: Single flowers on tall erect spikes held well clear of the foliage. Flowers in spring to summer in Australian conditions.
• Flowers: Large, unspotted scarlet-red with broad rounded lateral sepals, a clean cream-white centre, and a single red tail. No spotting, no striping — just pure saturated colour with a velvety, smooth finish that gives the clone its name.
• Plant: Compact, dark green foliage. A vigorous, well-established species for cool-growing collections.

Growing notes

• Temperature: Cool to cold. A high-altitude Colombian species — avoid sustained warmth and protect from summer heat.
• Light: Bright filtered shade. Good light levels are important for flowering.
• Water: Keep evenly moist at all times. No pseudobulbs means no water reserves — do not allow to dry out.
• Humidity & air: High humidity with constant gentle air movement. Rainwater or RO water preferred.

Shipping & condition

You will receive the selected clone 'Plush' as an established division. Buds and flowers cannot be guaranteed at time of shipping due to seasonal and environmental factors.