Masdevallia colossus — a hard houseplant, prefers partial sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Masdevallia colossus

Masdevallia Colossus

Updated · 2 observations
ON THIS PLANT
A note from PlantMom

Masdevallia colossus is generally resistant to disease and is affected by relatively few insect pests. Its level of care is considered difficult because it needs high humidity along with good ventilation and minimal harmful pathogens. Too much watering can cause root rot. Although anyone can grow Masdevallia colossus, keeping it healthy and getting it to bloom again requires more growing experience.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Masdevallia Colossus.

Light

Masdevallia colossus is native to habitats like forest understories and rocky areas, where it grows under natural shade. It prefers partial sun but can tolerate full sun or full shade, reflecting its adaptable and hardy nature.

Temperature

Masdevallia colossus does well in warm conditions. It prefers moderately high temperatures but not excessively hot and humid ones. Sunlight helps warm the plant and encourages flowering. However, extended periods of direct sun in summer can cause sunburn, so it's important to limit how much sunlight it gets during that season. The plant generally does not tolerate cold well, so it needs proper protection and warmer temperatures in winter to avoid freezing.

Fertilizer

Appropriate fertilization is essential for Masdevallia colossus's health and appearance. Apply fertilizer to Masdevallia colossus during the summer, repeating the treatment once a month throughout the season. Nutrients power growth and help sustain the plant's parts. Fertilizing improves Masdevallia colossus's floral display, ensuring the best blooms.

Pot & Repot

When repotting Masdevallia colossus, pick a pot slightly larger than the current one with good drainage, ideally a clear orchid pot. Use an orchid-specific, well-draining mix that includes bark or moss. Carefully clean the roots and cut away any that are dead or rotting. Repot after the plant has finished flowering, typically in spring or fall, water well, and keep it in bright, indirect light. Once repotted, avoid disturbing the roots.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Herb
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Masdevallia
Family
Orchidaceae
Hardiness Zone
10-12
Mature Height
15 cm to 30 cm
Mature Spread
20 cm to 30 cm
Leaf Color
Dark Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Size
5.08 cm to 7.62 cm
Bloom Time
All year round
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
All year round
Native Area
Ecuador, Peru
PLATES
Masdevallia colossus leaf
PLATE 01 · leaf
Masdevallia colossus leaf
PLATE 02 · leaf
Masdevallia colossus bark
PLATE 03 · bark
ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

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