Golden Flame Masdevallia (Hybrid Orchid)
This striking hybrid between Masdevallia ‘Sheryll’ and Golden Angel ‘Pacho’ combines the compact, upright form of its lineage with warm, flame-toned blooms that appear to glow from within. Each flower is a sculptural triangle in shades of golden orange to soft peach, with slender tails and a luminous texture that feels almost otherworldly. With the right conditions, this plant will reward the grower with multiple flushes of blooms per year.
Native to the cool, misty cloud forests of South America, Masdevallia orchids thrive in filtered light, steady moisture, and high humidity. This hybrid is particularly well-suited for Bay Area growers and adapts beautifully to indoor or sheltered outdoor conditions.
Light: Bright, filtered light. Avoid direct afternoon sun, which can damage leaves.
Water: Keep medium evenly moist using only distilled, rain, or reverse osmosis water. Do not allow to dry out completely.
Humidity: Prefers high humidity (60–80%) with excellent airflow to prevent rot or fungal issues.
Temperature: Cool to intermediate (55–75°F). Protect from cold drafts or hot, dry air.
Soil: Use a fine orchid mix containing sphagnum moss, small bark, and perlite.
Fertilizer: Feed every 2–3 weeks with a diluted orchid fertilizer (¼ strength) during active growth.
This hybrid blooms primarily in spring and fall but can flower multiple times per year with consistent care. Each flower lasts about 3–4 weeks and is held just above the foliage on an upright stem. Blooms are typically golden orange to warm yellow, sometimes with a pink or red flush near the sepals.
Grow near a bright, shaded window—ideally eastern or northern exposure. Maintain temperatures between 55–75°F and aim for humidity levels around 60–80%. In many parts of San Francisco, ambient humidity is naturally adequate, especially near the coast. Use an open potting mix and ensure good air circulation around the plant. Avoid placing near heater vents or in areas with wide temperature fluctuations.
Masdevallias can thrive outdoors in San Francisco’s mild climate, especially in shaded patios or sheltered courtyards. Protect from direct midday sun and cold temperatures below 45°F. Provide consistent moisture and shelter from wind. Move indoors or to a covered area during winter storms or extreme heat events.