Name: Masdevallia cinnamomea Rchb.f.

Synonyms: Alaticaulia cinnamomea (Rchb.f.) Luer

Etymology: The genus name Masdevallia honors José Masdeval, a Spanish physician and botanist. The Latin specific epithet cinnamomea means "cinnamon-colored" and refers to the warm, brownish-cinnamon coloration of the flowers.

Original description: Heinrich Gustav Reichenbach published Masdevallia cinnamomea in "Bonplandia" in 1855.

Origin/Distribution: Peru, specifically from the northern Andean region.

Habitat/Location: This species grows epiphytically in humid tropical cloud forests at high altitudes, including elevations of approximately 2,400–2,500 m. It prefers cool temperatures, filtered light, high humidity, and very good air circulation. For cultivation, we recommend approximately 9–20 °C during the day and 6–14 °C at night. Prolonged periods of warmth should be avoided if possible.

Description and notes: Masdevallia cinnamomea is a small, cool-growing species without pseudobulbs. Short, sturdy ramicauls each bear a single upright, leathery, narrowly elliptical leaf. The upright inflorescences can carry several flowers simultaneously; characteristic are the warm yellowish to cinnamon-brown shades. We keep the fine root system consistently slightly moist year-round and water with soft water if possible. A fine, airy, and slightly moisture-retentive substrate is well-suited. High humidity of about 70–90% is favorable, but must be combined with continuous air circulation.