Masdevallia Ignea

Masdevallia ignea is a spectacular botanical species of terrestrial (sometimes epiphytic) orchid, native to the Eastern Cordillera of Colombia, at high altitudes (2600-3800 m). It is one of the most sought-after Masdevallia due to its intense, "igneous" (fiery) color, which is where its name comes from.

The plant is compact, with short, erect ramicauls covered at the base by 2-3 tubular sheaths. The leaves are suberect, elliptic-lanceolate to oblong-lanceolate, leathery, glossy dark green, with a grooved petiole – giving an elegant and compact appearance.

The flowers are relatively large compared to the size of the plant, triangular, bright red-orange to intense red (with variations of yellow-red or orange-red), with the dorsal sepal tail distinctly curved between the lateral sepals. They appear singly on long erect inflorescences (30-37.5 cm), held well above the leaves. The flower lifespan is good (6-8 weeks).

Main features:

• Size: small-compact (ideal for limited spaces)
• Leaf type: leathery, glossy dark green
• Flower type: triangular, intense fiery red, with curved tail
• Fragrance: absent or very faint
• Blooming period: mainly late spring – summer (March-June, sometimes also autumn)

Simple and practical care (cool grower):

• Light: bright indirect or light shade (70-90% shade in summer, more light in winter)
• Ideal temperature: cool-intermediate – essential for flowering
• Watering: frequent, substrate should remain consistently moist but well aerated (do not let it dry out completely)
• Humidity: as high as possible, minimum 60%
• Substrate: fine and airy mix (sphagnum + perlite + fine bark) or mounted on fern/cork
• Fertilization: regular diluted feeding during the active season

A fiery red gem for Masdevallia collectors – compact, with spectacular flowers and easy to recognize by its characteristic shape! Grows well in cool and humid conditions, perfect for a cool greenhouse or bright windows with high humidity.

 
Read the complete care instructions for Masdevallia Ignea on the Blog.
Height with pot included: approx. 20 cm.