Name: Masdevallia guayanensis Luer & Carnevali

Etymology: The genus name Masdevallia honors José Masdeval, a Spanish physician and botanist. The specific epithet guayanensis refers to the Guiana region in northern South America.

First description: Masdevallia guayanensis was scientifically described by Carlyle A. Luer and Germán Carnevali.

Origin/Distribution: Northern South America, from the Guiana region.

Location/Habitat: The species grows epiphytically in humid montane forests with high humidity and good air movement. We recommend a bright to semi-shaded location with filtered light. Cool-temperate to temperate conditions of approximately 11–23 °C during the day and 8–17 °C at night are favorable. The substrate should remain consistently slightly moist.

Description and notes: Masdevallia guayanensis grows compactly without pseudobulbs and forms short ramicauls, each with one leathery leaf. The flowers have the characteristic Masdevallia structure, in which the sepals form the most conspicuous part of the flower and taper into elongated tips. We water regularly with the softest water possible and do not allow the fine roots to dry out completely. A fine, airy, and slightly moisture-retentive substrate is suitable. High humidity should always be combined with continuous air movement.