Overview
Masdevallia reichenbachiana is a columnar upright conservatory greenhouse in the genus Masdevallia, part of the Orchidaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Masdevallia reichenbachiana 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 reichenbachiana is a cultivar of the Masdevallia genus, a group of small orchids known as kite orchids due to their distinctive triangular flowers with tails. This cultivar features a columnar upright habit and deciduous foliage. It thrives in full shade with a sheltered aspect, suitable for north, west, or east-facing locations. The plant prefers moist but well-drained loam or sandy soils across a range of pH levels. Hardy to UK zone H2, it is best grown in orchid bark with bright indirect light and is ideal for patio and container cultivation throughout the year.
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 reichenbachiana 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 reichenbachiana
- 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 reichenbachiana?
Masdevallia reichenbachiana prefers full shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Masdevallia reichenbachiana need?
Masdevallia reichenbachiana 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 reichenbachiana hardy in the UK?
Masdevallia reichenbachiana 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 reichenbachiana?
Division when over-filling pot.
More in the Masdevallia genus
- Masdevallia
- Masdevallia caesia
- Masdevallia coccinea
- Masdevallia coccinea var. alba
- Masdevallia mezae 'Kathy'
- Masdevallia polysticta
- Masdevallia regina
- Masdevallia schroederiana
