Name: Masdevallia mentosa Luer

Synonyms: Luzama mentosa (Luer) Luer; Masdevallia glossacles Luer.

Etymology: Masdevallia honors the Spanish physician and botanist José Masdevall. The specific epithet mentosa means "provided with a chin" and refers to the protruding base of the flower.

Original description: Carlyle A. Luer described the species in 1978 in Phytologia, Volume 39, page 212.

Origin/Distribution: Ecuador, particularly the province of Pastaza.

Habitat: An epiphytic orchid of humid tropical forests. For cultivation, we recommend protected, diffused light, high humidity, and constant, gentle air movement. A temperate location at approximately 13–22 °C corresponds to the growing conditions at our Ecuadorian nursery; prolonged periods of heat should be avoided.

Description and notes: The solitary flowers are notable for their spreading lateral sepals, fine dark markings, and papillose surface. The dorsal sepal arches over the center of the flower. The species is particularly interesting for collectors of unusual floral forms. We recommend a small pot with fine bark and some sphagnum or a similarly airy, moisture-retentive substrate. Water regularly with low-salt water, without letting the roots dry out completely. Good drainage and light fertilization during growth support healthy new shoots.