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Description
Masdevallia Coccinea, also known as the Scarlet Masdevallia or the Red Masdevallia, is a popular orchid species native to the Andean cloud forests of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. It belongs to the Masdevallia genus, which comprises around 500 species of orchids. The Scarlet Masdevallia is a small epiphytic orchid that grows up to 10 inches tall and produces bright red or orange flowers that bloom in the winter and spring months.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Masdevallia |
Appearance
The Scarlet Masdevallia has distinctive bright red or orange flowers that grow on a short stem. The flowers are about 2 inches wide and have a waxy texture. The petals and sepals are similar in shape and size, forming a cup-like structure that encloses the column. The column is white and has a hairy texture. The leaves of the Scarlet Masdevallia are thick and leathery, growing in a rosette at the base of the plant. They are usually green in color, but some varieties have purple undersides.
Care Guide
The Scarlet Masdevallia is a relatively easy orchid to care for, but it requires specific conditions to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for your Scarlet Masdevallia:Water: The Scarlet Masdevallia requires frequent watering to keep the roots moist. Water your orchid once a week, or more frequently if the weather is hot and dry. Use distilled or rainwater, as tap water can contain minerals that are harmful to orchids.Fertilization: Fertilize your Scarlet Masdevallia once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) using a balanced orchid fertilizer. Do not fertilize during the dormant season (fall and winter).Soil: The Scarlet Masdevallia prefers a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter. Use a mix of sphagnum moss, bark, and perlite to create a suitable growing medium for your orchid.Sunlight: The Scarlet Masdevallia prefers bright, indirect light. Place your orchid in a north-facing window or under fluorescent lights to provide the right amount of light for your plant.Hardiness Zones: The Scarlet Masdevallia is not frost-tolerant and should be kept in a warm, humid environment. It is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Scarlet Masdevallia is susceptible to several common orchid pests and diseases, including:Spider mites: These tiny pests can infest your orchid and cause damage to the leaves and flowers. Use a commercial insecticidal soap to control spider mites.Mealybugs: Mealybugs are another common pest that can damage your orchid. Use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to remove mealybugs from your plant.Root rot: Overwatering can cause root rot, which can be fatal to your orchid. Make sure to allow the potting mix to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
Habitat
The Scarlet Masdevallia is native to the Andean cloud forests of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. It grows as an epiphyte on tree branches and rocks, often at high altitudes. The Scarlet Masdevallia prefers a cool, humid environment with plenty of shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Scarlet Masdevallia?
A: Water your orchid once a week, or more frequently if the weather is hot and dry.Q: What kind of potting mix should I use for my Scarlet Masdevallia?
A: The Scarlet Masdevallia prefers a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter. Use a mix of sphagnum moss, bark, and perlite to create a suitable growing medium for your orchid.Q: How much light does my Scarlet Masdevallia need?
A: The Scarlet Masdevallia prefers bright, indirect light. Place your orchid in a north-facing window or under fluorescent lights to provide the right amount of light for your plant.Q: How can I prevent root rot in my Scarlet Masdevallia?
A: Make sure to allow the potting mix to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
Related Plants
Other popular Masdevallia species include:
- Masdevallia Veitchiana
- Masdevallia Machu Picchu
- Masdevallia Orchidglade
- Masdevallia Angel Frost
References
- “Masdevallia Coccinea.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 9 Aug. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Masdevallia_coccinea.
- “Masdevallia.” American Orchid Society, 2021, aos.org/orchids/orchids-a-to-z/letter-m/masdevallia.aspx.
- “Scarlet Masdevallia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=o160.
