Status:
valid
Authors:
Luer & R.Escobar
Source:
wcs
Year:
1978
Citation Micro:
Orquideologia 13(1): 56. 1978
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000237125
Common Names
- Masdevallia Encephala
- Encephala Masdevallia
- Masdevallia Encephala Plant
Description
Masdevallia encephala (also called 'Encephala Masdevallia', among many other common names) is a small to medium sized epiphytic orchid with a single, erect, leafy stem. It is native to Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela, and is found growing in humid montane forests at elevations of 1000-2000 meters. It prefers bright, indirect light and high humidity.
Uses & Benefits
Masdevallia encephala is an ornamental plant, often used in gardens and as a houseplant. It is also used in floral arrangements and bouquets. The flowers are known to attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Masdevallia encephala is a small, tubular bloom with a yellow-orange color. It has a long, thin stem and a single petal. The seed is a small, black, round seed. The seedling is a small, green plant with a single stem and two small leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Masdevallia encephala can be propagated by division or by seed. The plant prefers a warm, humid environment with bright, indirect light. The soil should be well-draining and kept moist but not soggy. Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Where to Find Masdevallia encephala
Masdevallia encephala is native to the tropical rainforests of Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia.
Masdevallia encephala FAQ
What is the ideal temperature for Masdevallia encephala?
Masdevallia encephala prefers temperatures between 60-80°F (15-27°C)
What type of light does Masdevallia encephala need?
Masdevallia encephala needs bright, indirect light.
How often should Masdevallia encephala be watered?
Masdevallia encephala should be watered every 1-2 weeks, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Species in the Masdevallia genus
Masdevallia abbreviata,
Masdevallia acrochordonia,
Masdevallia adamsii,
Masdevallia adrianae,
Masdevallia aenigma,
Masdevallia agaster,
Masdevallia aguirrei,
Masdevallia albella,
Masdevallia alexandri,
Masdevallia alismifolia,
Masdevallia alvaroi,
Masdevallia amabilis,
Masdevallia amaluzae,
Masdevallia amanda,
Masdevallia amoena,
Masdevallia amplexa,
Masdevallia ampullacea,
Masdevallia anceps,
Masdevallia andreettana,
Masdevallia anemone,
Masdevallia anfracta,
Masdevallia angulata,
Masdevallia angulifera,
Masdevallia anisomorpha,
Masdevallia antonii,
Masdevallia aphanes,
Masdevallia apparitio,
Masdevallia arangoi,
Masdevallia ariasii,
Masdevallia arminii,
Masdevallia assurgens,
Masdevallia asterotricha,
Masdevallia atahualpa,
Masdevallia attenuata,
Masdevallia audax,
Masdevallia aurea,
Masdevallia aurorae,
Masdevallia ayabacana,
Masdevallia bangii,
Masdevallia barlaeana,
Masdevallia belua,
Masdevallia bennettii,
Masdevallia berthae,
Masdevallia bicolor,
Masdevallia bicornis,
Masdevallia biflora,
Masdevallia boliviensis,
Masdevallia bonplandii,
Masdevallia bottae,
Masdevallia bourdetteana,
Species in the Orchidaceae family
Aa fiebrigii,
Aa hartwegii,
Aa hieronymi,
Aa leucantha,
Aa lorentzii,
Aa macra,
Aa achalensis,
Aa maderoi,
Aa mandonii,
Aa matthewsii,
Aa microtidis,
Aa paleacea,
Aa argyrolepis,
Aa riobambae,
Aa rosei,
Aa schickendanzii,
Aa sphaeroglossa,
Aa trilobulata,
Aa weddelliana,
Aa aurantiaca,
Aa calceata,
Aa colombiana,
Aa denticulata,
Aa erosa,
Aa figueroi,
Aa lozanoi,
Aa lehmannii,
Acampe carinata,
Acampe cephalotes,
Acampe ochracea,
Acampe pachyglossa,
Acampe praemorsa,
Acampe joiceyana,
Acampe hulae,
Acanthophippium bicolor,
Acanthophippium chrysoglossum,
Acanthophippium curtisii,
Acanthophippium eburneum,
Acanthophippium gougahense,
Acanthophippium javanicum,
Acanthophippium lilacinum,
Acanthophippium mantinianum,
Acanthophippium parviflorum,
Acanthophippium pictum,
Acanthophippium splendidum,
Acanthophippium striatum,
Acanthophippium sylhetense,
Acanthophippium curtisii,
Achlydosa glandulosa,
Acianthera aculeata,