There are nearly 365 species. However, there are species that thrive in ranges from sea level to the mountainous elevations. Masdevallias are epiphytes and are found from Southern Mexico to Southern Brazil. Masdevallias like at least a 10 degree temperature change between days and nights. They like higher humidity.
Masdevallia infracta is more tolerant of warmer temperatures.
Masdevallias like low to medium light. Leaf color generally is medium to light green. They like shady areas. Too much water on the plant can cause a fungus that rots the leaves. It is important to adjust the watering schedule to accommodate the time of year.