Masdevallia veitchiana 'Prince de Galle'

Masdevallia veitchiana, known as "Veitch's Masdevallia" or "King of the Masdevallias", is arguably the most important species in the genus. It is native exclusively to the Cusco region of Peru around Machu Picchu, at 2,000–4,000 m. Richard Pearce discovered it for Veitch Nurseries in 1867, and it was named for Harry Veitch. In Peru it is known as gallo-gallo ("rooster") and in Quechua as waqanki. Its large orange flowers are covered in iridescent purple hairs, which create a shifting, prismatic colour effect depending on viewing angle and light.

'Prince de Galle' is one of the most enduringly awarded clones of the species, with 4 recorded awards spanning 1971–2018. It is also noted in Masdevallias: Gems of the Orchid World as the yellow carrier behind the yellow form of Falcata.

About this plant

• Flowers: Broad, upright flowers with intense orange to red-orange colouration and strong substance. The veitchiana form is distinctive: a compact sepal body with relatively reduced tails, and concentrated, saturated pigmentation.
• Plant: Compact to medium Masdevallia habit, vigorous when cool conditions are met.

Growing conditions

• Temperature: Cool to cold, within a range of 3°C to 18°C. This is a Peruvian Andean cloud forest species from 2,000–4,000 m, and it needs cool nights. Avoid sustained warmth; it is not suited to warm climates.
• Light: Bright filtered light, with 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

A flowering size, established division of Masdevallia veitchiana 'Prince de Galle'. Buds and flowers cannot be guaranteed at the time of shipping due to seasonal and environmental factors.