Masdevallia veitchiana, commonly known as Veitch’s masdevallia or king of the masdevallias, is an orchid species native to the high Andes of Peru, including the area around Machu Picchu. It is typically found at elevations of 6562-13123 feet, where it grows on steep rocky slopes that are often covered with grasses and shrubs. This orchid is adapted to cool, moist conditions and is both terrestrial and lithophytic, meaning it can grow on the ground or on rocks, and sometimes epiphytic, growing on other plants. Masdevallia veitchiana has a distinctive appearance with short ramicauls enveloped by tubular bracts and linear-oblanceolate leaves. The flowers are particularly striking, blooming in spring and early summer, they are orange with small purple hairs, which create an iridescent effect and are quite showy.

In cultivation, Veitch’s masdevallia is valued for its unique and beautiful flowers. It is best grown under cool to intermediate conditions and requires high humidity and good air circulation. It should be provided with good light but not direct sunlight to flower consistently. While it is rarely imported due to over-collection in the wild, it can be propagated easily from seed or division, making it accessible for orchid enthusiasts. It is often grown in specialized orchid collections or by hobbyists in greenhouses. Care should be taken to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0