Name: Masdevallia impostor Luer & R.Escobar

Etymology: The genus name Masdevallia honors José Masdeval, a Spanish physician and botanist. The species epithet impostor means roughly “deceiver” or “imitator” and refers to its similarity to related species.

First description: Masdevallia impostor was scientifically described by Carlyle A. Luer and Rodrigo Escobar.

Origin/Distribution: Colombia.

Location/Habitat: The species is native to humid montane Andean forests, where it grows epiphytically in conditions of high humidity and good air circulation. We recommend bright to semi-shaded, filtered light. Cool to temperate conditions of about 10–22 °C during the day and 7–15 °C at night are favorable. The substrate should remain evenly and slightly moist without becoming waterlogged.

Description and notes: Masdevallia impostor grows compactly without pseudobulbs. Short ramicauls each bear a leathery leaf; the striking flowers are characterized by their three sepals, which taper into distinctive elongated tips. We water regularly with water that is as soft as possible and do not let the fine root system dry out completely. A fine, airy substrate that retains a little moisture is well suited. High humidity should always be combined with continuous air circulation.