Masdevallia josei

A compact and floriferous species whose flowers display the characteristic triangular sepaline tube and slender tails of the genus, emerging on upright single-flowered inflorescences that bloom in succession throughout the year under cool, humid conditions.

• Light: Grow under 50–70% shade cloth; direct sun causes immediate leaf scorch and must be avoided.
• Temperature: Cool grower. Daytime 57–68°F (14–20°C), nights 45–54°F (7–12°C). A consistent day-night differential is essential for healthy growth and reliable blooming.
• Humidity: Requires 75–90% relative humidity; humidity trays or a humidifier with steady air movement prevent fungal problems.
• Watering: Keep evenly moist year-round; mounted plants need more frequent watering than potted ones, with a slight reduction during the coolest months.

Additional Notes

Native to Ecuador at elevations of 1,800–2,500 meters in cool cloud-forest habitats, named in honor of José Portilla. Best cultivated in small pots with fine bark or sphagnum moss, or mounted on cork bark or tree fern.