Masdevallia davisii

Native to Peru, this small perennial orchid grows in soil pockets and on exposed rocks near the tree line in wet mountain forests, between about 8,500 and 13,100 feet. Its very short stems each carry a leathery, narrow leaf. Fragrant flowers about two inches across appear individually on upright stalks that can reach ten inches long. A stalk can produce successive flowers, extending the display after its first bloom fades. Flowering occurs in late spring and summer. Photographed in Ecuador.