Masdevallia coccinea
Masdevallia coccinea
Masdevallia coccinea, known for its vibrant red flowers, is a stunning orchid native to the cloud forests of South America. This unique plant thrives in high humidity and bright, indirect light, making it a favorite among orchid enthusiasts.
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Masdevallia coccinea prefers consistently moist soil but should never be waterlogged.
Water every 5-7 days, allowing the top inch of the medium to dry out between waterings. In the winter, reduce watering to every 10-14 days. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering may cause leaf wilting and browning tips.
Light
This orchid thrives in bright, indirect light.
Ideal placement is near an east or north-facing window, receiving 4-6 hours of filtered sunlight daily. It can tolerate some direct morning sun but should be protected from harsh afternoon rays to prevent leaf burn.
Soil
Masdevallia coccinea prefers a well-draining potting mix, ideally composed of bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss.
The pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, around 5.5 to 7.0. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water accumulation.
Humidity
This orchid thrives in high humidity levels of 50-70%.
To increase humidity, consider using a humidity tray or a room humidifier. Signs of low humidity include leaf curling and browning edges, while excessive humidity can lead to fungal issues.
Temperature
Ideal temperature range for Masdevallia coccinea is 60-75°F (15-24°C) during the day and 50-60°F (10-15°C) at night.
It is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 10-12. This plant is sensitive to extreme heat and cold, so avoid temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Fertilizing
Use a balanced orchid fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 30-10-10, diluted to half strength.
Fertilize every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer), and reduce to once every 6-8 weeks in fall and winter. Signs of nutrient deficiency include yellowing leaves and poor growth.
Pruning
Prune Masdevallia coccinea after flowering to remove spent flower spikes and any dead or damaged leaves.
Use sterilized scissors or pruning shears to prevent disease. Regularly check for any dead or yellowing leaves and remove them to promote healthy growth.
Repotting
Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant outgrows its pot.
Signs it needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes or a compacted potting medium. Choose a pot 1-2 inches larger in diameter, gently remove the old medium, and re-pot in fresh mix, ensuring the crown is above the medium.
Propagation
Propagation is typically done through division.
The best time to divide is in spring when the plant is actively growing. Carefully remove the plant from its pot, separate the rhizomes ensuring each division has roots, and re-pot them in fresh medium. Water lightly after repotting to minimize stress.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
Typically caused by over-watering or insufficient light.
How to fix it
Adjust watering frequency and ensure the plant receives adequate indirect light.
Root rot
Why it happens
Overly wet conditions and poor drainage.
How to fix it
Repot the plant in fresh, dry medium and reduce watering frequency.
Browning leaf tips
Why it happens
Low humidity or underwatering.
How to fix it
Increase humidity levels and ensure regular watering.
Flower spikes not developing
Why it happens
Insufficient light or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Provide brighter indirect light and fertilize appropriately.
Leaf curling
Why it happens
Low humidity or temperature stress.
How to fix it
Increase humidity and maintain stable temperatures.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, increase watering frequency as the plant begins active growth. Fertilize every 2-4 weeks with a balanced orchid fertilizer.
Summer
Maintain consistent moisture and humidity levels. Monitor for pests and continue fertilizing every 2-4 weeks.
Fall
Reduce fertilization frequency to every 6-8 weeks as growth slows. Begin to decrease watering slightly as temperatures drop.
Winter
Water less frequently, allowing the medium to dry out more between waterings. Ensure the plant is kept in a cooler environment at night.
Toxicity & Safety
Masdevallia coccinea is non-toxic to pets and children. It is safe to have around, but ingestion of any plant material can still cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
Good to know
How often should I water my Masdevallia coccinea?
Water every 5-7 days, allowing the top inch of the medium to dry out. In winter, reduce watering to every 10-14 days.
What light conditions are best for Masdevallia coccinea?
This orchid thrives in bright, indirect light, ideally near an east or north-facing window with 4-6 hours of filtered sunlight.
What type of soil is best for Masdevallia coccinea?
A well-draining potting mix composed of bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss is ideal for this orchid.
How can I increase humidity for my Masdevallia coccinea?
Increase humidity by using a humidity tray, room humidifier, or grouping plants together to create a microclimate.
When should I repot my Masdevallia coccinea?
Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant outgrows its pot, typically in spring.
What are the signs of nutrient deficiency in Masdevallia coccinea?
Signs include yellowing leaves and poor growth. Regular fertilization can help prevent this issue.
Is Masdevallia coccinea toxic to pets?
No, Masdevallia coccinea is non-toxic to both pets and children, making it a safe choice for homes.
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