Overview
Masdevallia polysticta is a columnar upright conservatory greenhouse in the genus Masdevallia, part of the Orchidaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Masdevallia polysticta 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 polysticta is a cultivar of the Masdevallia genus, a group of orchids known as kite orchids for their distinctive triangular flowers with tails. This cultivar grows with a columnar upright habit and deciduous foliage, thriving in full shade with a sheltered aspect such as north, west, or east-facing positions. It prefers moist but well-drained soil, including loam or sand, and tolerates a range of soil pH levels. Suitable for patio and container planting, it requires orchid bark and bright indirect light for cultivation and can be propagated by division when the pot becomes crowded. It offers interest throughout all seasons.
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 polysticta 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 polysticta
- 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 polysticta?
Masdevallia polysticta prefers full shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Masdevallia polysticta need?
Masdevallia polysticta 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 polysticta hardy in the UK?
Masdevallia polysticta 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 polysticta?
Division when over-filling pot.
More in the Masdevallia genus
- Masdevallia
- Masdevallia caesia
- Masdevallia coccinea
- Masdevallia coccinea var. alba
- Masdevallia mezae 'Kathy'
- Masdevallia regina
- Masdevallia schroederiana
- Masdevallia triangularis
