Masdevallia veitchiana 'Sol'

Masdevallia veitchiana ("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 that create a shifting, prismatic colour effect depending on viewing angle and light.

'Sol' is one of the most enduringly awarded clones of the species, with 5 recorded awards spanning 1973–1992. It matches 'Prince de Galle' as one of the two most historically significant veitchiana selections in cultivation. Victorian growers (OSCOV) have noted 'Sol' as robust enough to grow outdoors alongside cymbidiums locally.

About this plant

• Flowers: Broad, upright flowers with intense orange to red-orange colouration and strong substance. The veitchiana form is distinctive, with a compact sepal body, 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, 3°C – 18°C. This is a Peruvian Andean cloud forest species from 2,000–4,000 m. 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. There are no pseudobulbs, so do not allow it to dry out.
• Humidity & air: Humidity of 60% or higher, with constant gentle air movement. Rainwater or RO water preferred.

What you'll receive

An established flowering size division of Masdevallia veitchiana 'Sol', a piece divided from an established plant. Buds and flowers cannot be guaranteed at time of shipping due to seasonal and environmental factors.