Overview
Masdevallia caesia is a columnar upright conservatory greenhouse in the genus Masdevallia, part of the Orchidaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Masdevallia caesia grows best in full shade, and tolerates loam and sand soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H2. Suggested uses include patio and container plants.
About
Masdevallia caesia is a cultivar of the Masdevallia genus, a group of small orchids known as kite orchids for their distinctive triangular flowers with tails. This cultivar features a columnar upright habit with deciduous foliage. It thrives in full shade and prefers a sheltered position with moist but well-drained soil, suitable for loam or sand with a range of pH levels. Hardy to UK zone H2, it is ideal for patio and container planting, flowering throughout spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Cultivation involves orchid bark and bright indirect light, with propagation by division when the pot becomes crowded.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Masdevallia
- Sunlight
- Full shade
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H2
Plant details
Masdevallia caesia size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Conservatory Greenhouse
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Patio and container plants
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Masdevallia caesia
- Propagation
- Division when over-filling pot
- Pest resistance
- Aphids, glasshouse red spider mite, mealybugs
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Masdevallia caesia?
Masdevallia caesia prefers full shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Masdevallia caesia need?
Masdevallia caesia grows best in loam and sand soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Masdevallia caesia hardy in the UK?
Masdevallia caesia has an RHS hardiness rating of H2, meaning it is tender, tolerating 1–5°C, and needs frost-free protection over winter.
How do I propagate Masdevallia caesia?
Division when over-filling pot.
More in the Masdevallia genus
- Masdevallia
- Masdevallia coccinea
- Masdevallia coccinea var. alba
- Masdevallia mezae 'Kathy'
- Masdevallia polysticta
- Masdevallia regina
- Masdevallia schroederiana
- Masdevallia triangularis
