This species is one of our brightly coloured masdevallias – irresistable to its hummingbird pollinators and humans alike.

Masdevallia barlaeana is found from Colombia to Peru at high altitude (2200-3100m) as a lithophyte on rocky slopes – a similar habitat as that of Masdevallia veitchiana. The species is smaller growing and smaller flowered than its close relative Masdevallia coccinea but is a rewarding species to grow. We find that to reflect the natural habitat, plants grow best cool but bright – which can be tricky in the summer – but the species is well worth the challenge.

If you are joining us on Monday evening, look out for Masdevallia barlaeana in our Cool Asia section.