Masdevallia leonii

A free-flowering species that produces several blooms simultaneously, each with large, rounded, ruffled sepals forming a broad, open flower with a prominent upright dorsal tail and two shorter lateral tails — an elegant and eye-catching combination that rises gracefully above the compact, broad-leaved plant.

• Light: Grow under 50–70% shade cloth; direct sun causes rapid leaf scorch and must be avoided.
• Temperature: Intermediate grower. Daytime 61–72°F (16–22°C), nights 48–57°F (9–14°C). A consistent day-night differential supports vigorous growth and reliable blooming.
• Humidity: Requires 75–90% relative humidity; humidity trays or a humidifier with steady air movement keep conditions optimal.
• Watering: Maintain even moisture year-round; mounted plants need more frequent watering than potted ones, with a modest reduction during the coolest months.

Additional Notes

Native to Peru at elevations around 1,900 meters in humid montane forest habitats, named in honor of León Arias. Best cultivated in small to medium pots with fine bark or sphagnum moss, or mounted on cork bark or tree fern.