Name: Masdevallia descendens Luer & Andreetta

Synonym: Alaticaulia descendens (Luer & Andreetta) Luer

Etymology: The genus name Masdevallia honors José Masdeval. The Latin descendens means “descending” and refers to its pendulous growth habit.

First description: Carlyle A. Luer and P. Andreetta, 1988.

Origin/Distribution: Ecuador.

Location/Habitat: Epiphytic on moss-covered trees in the provinces of Morona Santiago and Zamora Chinchipe, at approximately 1,300–1,500 m. The species prefers cool to intermediate temperatures of around 12–23 °C, high humidity, and gentle air movement.

Description and Notes: Masdevallia descendens is a small, compact species with a slightly pendulous growth habit. Well-established plants produce numerous flowers measuring approximately 3 cm. We grow it in a fine, airy, moisture-retentive substrate that remains evenly and slightly moist. Bright, sheltered light, low-mineral water, and good air movement are important; prolonged heat and complete drying out should be avoided.