Overview
Masdevallia coccinea is a columnar upright conservatory greenhouse in the genus Masdevallia, part of the Orchidaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Masdevallia coccinea 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 coccinea, the little flag, is a species of orchid occurring at high altitudes in the Eastern Cordillera of Colombia.
About the genus
Masdevallia, abbreviated Masd in horticultural trade, is a large genus of flowering plants of the Pleurothallidinae, a subtribe of the orchid family (Orchidaceae). There are over 500 species, grouped into several subgenera. The genus is named for Jose Masdevall (?-1801), a physician and botanist in the court of Charles III of Spain.
Wikipedia contributors, "Masdevallia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Masdevallia
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 coccinea 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 coccinea
- 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 coccinea?
Masdevallia coccinea prefers full shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Masdevallia coccinea need?
Masdevallia coccinea 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 coccinea hardy in the UK?
Masdevallia coccinea 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 coccinea?
Division when over-filling pot.