Masdevallia ‘Perfection’ (PSL ‘Samantha’ x MGH ‘Lemon Sorbet’)

Masdevallia ‘Perfection’

(PSL ‘Samantha’ × MGH ‘Lemon Sorbet’)
Perfection Masdevallia (Hybrid Orchid)

A refined and luminous hybrid, Masdevallia ‘Perfection’ brings together the delicate beauty of PSL ‘Samantha’ and the cheerful brightness of MGH ‘Lemon Sorbet’. The result is a compact orchid with pristine, triangular blooms in shades of soft yellow to buttery cream, sometimes flushed with peach or pink depending on light and temperature. Each flower has elongated sepals that taper into fine tails, giving the bloom a graceful, sculptural presence.

Like many Masdevallia hybrids, ‘Perfection’ thrives in cool to intermediate temperatures with steady moisture and bright, filtered light. Its compact form and forgiving nature make it a standout for growers looking to expand their orchid collection with something a little special—but still manageable.

Care Guide

• Light: Bright, indirect light. Filtered morning sun is ideal; avoid strong midday rays.

• Water: Keep evenly moist with distilled, rain, or reverse osmosis water. Do not allow medium to dry out completely.

• Humidity: Prefers 60–80% humidity with ample airflow. Avoid stagnant conditions.

• Temperature: Cool to intermediate (55–75°F). Consistency is key—avoid sudden swings in temperature.

• Soil: Use a fine, moisture-retentive orchid mix such as sphagnum moss with fine bark or perlite.

• Fertilizer: Feed every 2–3 weeks with a diluted orchid fertilizer (¼ strength) during active growth.

Blooms

‘Perfection’ typically blooms in spring and fall but may flower more frequently under stable conditions. Blooms are long-lasting (up to 3–4 weeks) and are held singly on upright stems just above the foliage. Their pale, glowing color and elegant shape make this hybrid particularly striking in lower-light displays or among darker green foliage.

How to Grow Indoors  

Grow in bright, filtered light near an east- or north-facing window. Maintain a stable temperature range of 55–75°F and humidity around 60–80%, which is often naturally present in many San Francisco homes. Good airflow is essential. Avoid dry, heated areas or windows with wide temperature swings. Supplemental grow lighting may be used in darker months.

How to Grow Outdoors (San Francisco)

This Masdevallia can be grown outdoors in much of the Bay Area with protection. Place in a cool, shaded area sheltered from wind—such as under a pergola, shade cloth, or in a fern-filled courtyard. Protect from afternoon sun and temperatures below 45°F. Move indoors or to a sheltered location during periods of excessive heat, frost, or high winds. Monitor soil moisture regularly during dry spells.