Masdevallia sprucei x self #3145 ('1718') (approximately 25 seedlings per flask).

The Species: This low elevation, miniature species is found in Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru where it is a warm growing epiphyte. It is found at elevations from 1000 to 3000 feet in wet forests. It is a successive bloomer with 3 to 4 flowers over time on an inflorescence. The cheerful flowers are about 5/8" wide and long lasting. It blooms for much of the year.

Culture: I've grown this plant for about 15 years but it wasn't until two years ago that I started growing it well. 56°F at night is too cool for this plant to thrive. I now grow it on a propagation mat that maintains the bark temperature close to 70°F and now it blooms regularly and often. It grows in shade to moderate light either potted or mounted with regular water and dilute fertilizer.

Capsule Parent: Masdevallia spruce '1718'