Masdevallia veitchiana (Goliath x Makawao)

🌿 Why We Love It

This cross between Masdevallia veitchiana ‘Goliath’ and ‘Makawao’ brings out the best in this species: rich, flaming orange blooms with an opalescent sheen, dramatically veined with red or purple. Each triangular flower is large, flat-faced, and held aloft on tall, upright spikes that rise well above the foliage, giving the plant a regal presence even when not in bloom. The leaves are narrow and upright, forming a neat architectural clump.

What sets this cross apart is its size and stature—‘Goliath’ lends robust form and bloom size, while ‘Makawao’ refines the shape and improves symmetry. It’s a superb collector’s clone that delivers on visual drama without compromising on grace.

🧬 Background & Breeding

Masdevallia veitchiana is one of the most iconic species in the genus, native to the high Andes of Peru, where it grows at elevations over 10,000 feet in misty, cold cloud forests. Known as “King of the Masdevallias,” it is admired for its bold coloration and shimmering cellular surface. This specific cross (Goliath × Makawao) was made to enhance floral form, size, and consistency while preserving the iridescence and rich hues that make veitchiana legendary.

☀️ Light

Bright gentle light. This species prefers very bright, filtered light—think bright east-facing windows indoors, or bright shade outdoors. Avoid direct sun, which can scorch the leaves.

🌡️ Temperature

• Ideal Range: 45–70°F

• Tolerates: Down to ~38°F short-term. Avoid temps above 75°F for extended periods.
  This is a true cool grower. In hot weather, ensure shade, high humidity, and airflow.

💧 Water

Keep moist but not soggy. Masdevallia veitchiana dislikes drying out, especially during active growth. Water when the top moss or bark layer begins to feel barely dry. Avoid letting roots sit in water.

💧 In San Francisco and areas on Hetch Hetchy water, tap is generally fine. In hard water areas, use distilled, reverse osmosis, or rainwater.

💨 Humidity & Airflow

• Humidity: 60–90%

• Airflow: Crucial for preventing rot, especially in cool, damp conditions.
  Use fans or open windows for indoor growing. Terrariums or orchidariums should have venting.

🌱 Potting & Medium

• Preferred Medium: Long-fiber sphagnum moss or fine-grade bark with sphagnum.

• Pot Type: Plastic or net pots with excellent drainage.
  Repot every 12–18 months, or sooner if medium begins to break down.

🌸 Blooming

• Bloom Season: Primarily spring to early summer

• Bloom Habit: Single, upright flowers on tall, elegant spikes

• Flower Longevity: ~2–3 weeks per bloom

• This cross is known to produce several spikes per season when well grown. Flowers are long-lasting and stunning in displays.

🪴 Indoor vs Outdoor Growing (SF Bay Area)

Indoors

• Prefers bright, cool windows—east or north exposure is ideal.

• Can be grown in well-ventilated orchid cases or terrariums with high humidity.

• Avoid warm rooms or drying air (e.g., near heaters).

Outdoors (SF microclimates)

• Ideal for foggy, cool neighborhoods (Sunset, Daly City, Twin Peaks).

• Grows beautifully in bright-shaded patios, greenhouse shelves, or misty balconies.

• In warmer inland areas (Oakland, Berkeley flats), restrict to shoulder seasons or grow in a temperature-controlled setting.

💤 Dormancy

None. This species grows year-round but may slow slightly in winter. Maintain consistent watering, humidity, and light year-round for best performance.