Name: Masdevallia veitchiana Rchb.f.
Synonyms: Masdevallia frogmore auct.
Etymology: veitchiana = in honor of Harry James Veitch, head of the famous London nursery Veitch & Sons, which introduced the species in the 19th century.

Original description: 1868 by Heinrich Gustav Reichenbach in "The Gardeners' Chronicle".
Origin / Distribution: Peru (Central Andes, region around Cusco and Machu Picchu).
Location / Habitat: Growing mostly terrestrially or lithophytically on steep, grassy, and mossy slopes at altitudes of 2000 to 4000 m. The species is constantly exposed to cool winds, fog, and high UV radiation.
Description & Notes: Masdevallia veitchiana, often referred to as the "Queen of Masdevallias," is one of the most spectacular species of the genus. It has upright, leathery leaves without pseudobulbs. The large, bright orange flowers are covered with microscopic violet hairs, which creates a fascinating iridescent effect depending on the incidence of light.

In cultivation, the species is considered demanding as it strictly requires cool to cold temperatures (especially a drop at night). It prefers bright but indirect light and consistently high humidity combined with very good air circulation. The substrate (usually fine bark or sphagnum moss) must always remain moist, as the plant has no storage organs and is sensitive to drying out.

In-vitro culture: You will receive one flask with 4 young plants. The plants are generally already large enough to be deflasked. After opening, carefully remove the nutrient medium completely from the fine roots using lukewarm water and place the young plants in a very fine, airy, and slightly moisture-retaining substrate with sphagnum. For the first few weeks, we recommend very high humidity, cool conditions, and bright but protected light. Keep evenly moist, avoid complete drying out, and ensure gentle, continuous air movement.