Masdevallia (MGM ‘Isis’ × coccinea ‘Elle’)
Masdevallia (MGM ‘Isis’ × coccinea ‘Elle’)
A vivid hybrid with refined lines and intense color
This elegant Masdevallia hybrid combines the compact form and bloom reliability of MGM ‘Isis’ with the intense coloration and classic shape of Masdevallia coccinea ‘Elle’. The result is a striking plant that produces deep magenta to ruby-toned flowers with a smooth, velvety texture and graceful triangular form. Blooms are held above the foliage on slender stems, giving the plant a sculptural, airy presence.
Thanks to its parentage, this hybrid tends to be both floriferous and slightly more tolerant of warmth than many cool-growing Masdevallias, making it a great choice for growers with good humidity and bright shade.
Light: Bright, indirect light or filtered shade. Avoid direct midday sun.
Temperature: Cool to intermediate (50–75°F). Brief warmth is tolerated if humidity is high.
Humidity: 60–90%, with strong air movement.
Water: Keep moist but not soggy. Never allow to dry out completely.
Potting mix: Fine bark, sphagnum moss, or a moisture-retentive orchid mix.
Fertilizer: Use a diluted orchid fertilizer every 2–4 weeks during active growth.
How to grow Masdevallia (MGM ‘Isis’ × coccinea ‘Elle’) indoors:
This hybrid grows beautifully indoors in bright, cool spaces with high humidity and good air circulation. Ideal setups include terrariums, orchidariums, or well-lit shelves with a fan and humidifier nearby. Use distilled, rain, or reverse-osmosis water unless your tap water is exceptionally pure—like that from San Francisco’s Hetch Hetchy system, which is generally safe for orchids.
How to grow Masdevallia (MGM ‘Isis’ × coccinea ‘Elle’) outdoors in the Bay Area:
Outdoors, this hybrid performs best in foggy, cool microclimates like Pacifica, Daly City, or higher elevations of Berkeley and Oakland. Provide bright shade, consistent moisture, and shelter from hot, dry winds. A lath house or shaded, ventilated porch is ideal. Water regularly and monitor for drying during warm spells.
Bloom season: Most often late winter through spring, with potential for repeat blooms
Pet safe: Yes
Difficulty: Intermediate. More forgiving than many Masdevallias, but still requires attention to humidity and airflow.