A synopsis of theMaxillaria rufescens Lindl. complex is provided for Mexico, Central, America, and the Greater Antilles. Five species are recognized in the complex, of which one,Maxillaria sotoana Carnevali & Gómez-Juárez, is herewith proposed as new. TrueMaxillaria rufescens is restricted to South America. The treatment includes a key to their identification, descriptions, geographical accounts, discussions of their affinities, and illustrations. In addition,Maxillaria acutifolia var.minor Fawcett & Rendl., from the Greater Antilles, is given full specific rank asMaxillaria pudica Carnevali & Tapia-Muñoz.