Corsage Orchid, Queen of Orchids, Brazilian Orchid, Cat Orchid
Cattleya orchids, often called the “queen of orchids,” are among the world’s most popular and widely recognized orchids. They belong to the family Orchidaceae, one of the largest and most diverse plant families on earth. Renowned for their large, showy, and fragrant flowers, Cattleyas are a favorite among orchid enthusiasts and florists.
Native: Cattleya orchids are native to Costa Rica and much of South America. These orchids are often found growing as epiphytes on trees, where they receive bright, filtered light and benefit from the air circulation provided by their elevated position.
Habit: They have a sympodial growth habit, where new growth arises from the base of the previous growth, forming a clump over time. The plants produce pseudobulbs—thickened stems that store water and nutrients—critical to their survival in their native habitats.
Size: Cattleya orchids vary in size depending on the species or hybrid. Mature plants typically range in height from 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 cm), although some species can grow taller. The size of the plant is influenced by the conditions in which it is grown, with optimal light, temperature, and humidity promoting more robust growth.
Flowers: The flowers of Cattleya orchids are their most striking feature. Typically large and showy, Cattleya flowers can measure between 4 to 8 inches (10 to 20 cm) in diameter, with some hybrids producing even larger blooms. The flowers are known for their broad, ruffled petals and sepals and a distinctive lip (labellum) that is often elaborately colored and patterned. Cattleya flowers come in various colors, including white, pink, purple, yellow, orange, and even green, often with contrasting markings or spots. Many Cattleyas are also highly fragrant, with scents ranging from sweet and floral to spicy or citrusy.
Bloom Time: Cattleya orchids typically bloom once or twice a year, depending on the species or hybrid and the growing conditions. The bloom time for Cattleyas can vary, but many species and hybrids tend to flower in the spring and fall. Each flower spike can produce one to several blooms, and the flowers generally last for 2 to 6 weeks.
Foliage: Cattleya leaves are thick, leathery, and typically medium to dark green. They are oblong or elliptical and can grow to 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm). Healthy Cattleya leaves should be firm and slightly glossy, indicating that the plant receives adequate light and care.
Uses: Cattleya orchids are widely used for ornamental purposes due to their stunning flowers. They are popular in floral arrangements, corsages, and wedding bouquets, often serving as a focal point because of their large and vibrant blooms. Cattleyas are also commonly grown as houseplants in pots or mounted on bark or other supports, where they can be enjoyed for their beauty and fragrance.
These orchids are not toxic to pets (cats and dogs) or humans, making them safe for households with children and animals.
Cattleya orchids require bright, indirect light to thrive. They can tolerate direct sunlight, especially in the morning, but should be protected from intense midday sun, which can scorch the leaves. A south or east-facing window is ideal. The leaves should be a light, grassy green; dark green leaves indicate insufficient light, while yellowish leaves suggest too much light.
Cattleyas prefer warm temperatures during the day, typically between 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C), and cooler nights, around 55°F to 65°F (13°C to 18°C). These temperature fluctuations are important for triggering blooming. While they can tolerate temperatures as high as 95°F (35°C) if humidity and air circulation are adequate, they are not frost-tolerant and should be protected from cold drafts.
Cattleya orchids prefer a wet/dry cycle. Water the orchid thoroughly when the potting medium is almost dry but not completely dried out. Watering in the morning is best, allowing excess water to drain completely. Never let the plant sit in water, as this can lead to root rot. During the growing season, water more frequently, reducing the frequency during the winter months when the plant is not actively growing.
Cattleyas thrive in moderate humidity levels, ideally between 50% to 70%. Increase humidity in a dry indoor environment by placing the plant on a tray of damp pebbles or using a room humidifier. Good air circulation is also important to prevent fungal diseases, especially in humid conditions.
Feed Cattleya orchids regularly during the growing season with a balanced orchid fertilizer, diluted to half or quarter strength. A high-nitrogen fertilizer (e.g., 30-10-10) is beneficial during active growth, while a high-phosphorus fertilizer can be used in the spring to promote blooming. Reduce fertilization during the fall and winter months when the plant’s growth slows down.
Cattleyas should be repotted every 2 to 3 years, or when the potting medium starts to break down, usually after flowering. The best time to repot is when new roots begin to emerge. Use a well-draining orchid bark mix, often with added perlite and charcoal. Mature plants benefit from a coarser potting medium, while seedlings may require finer bark. Ensure the pot has good drainage, and choose a pot size that allows room for two years of growth.
Proper air circulation is crucial for Cattleyas, especially in environments with high humidity. It helps prevent fungal and bacterial diseases. If grown indoors, consider placing a small fan near the plant to ensure consistent airflow, particularly during the warmer months.
Cattleyas typically bloom once or twice a year, with each bloom lasting several weeks. To encourage blooming, ensure the orchid receives sufficient light and experiences a temperature drop at night. After flowering, reduce watering and fertilization slightly to allow the plant to rest before the next growth cycle.
Cattleya orchids are best propagated through division. This involves separating the plant into sections with at least 3 to 5 pseudobulbs, ensuring each has healthy roots. The divisions should be repotted in fresh orchid medium after flowering, during new growth. Use sterilized tools to cut the rhizome, and provide appropriate care for the new plants to establish.
Cattleya orchids can face several common problems, but many can be prevented or managed with proper care.
Water your Cattleya orchid when the potting medium is nearly dry. Generally, this means watering once a week during the growing season and less frequently during the winter. Ensure the potting medium drains well, and avoid letting the roots sit in water to prevent root rot.
Yellowing leaves can be caused by overwatering, insufficient light, or natural aging. Check your watering routine to ensure the medium dries out between waterings. Make sure your orchid is receiving bright, indirect light, and note that older leaves naturally yellow and fall off over time.
To encourage blooming, provide your Cattleya with bright, indirect light and maintain a temperature drop at night (around 10°F lower than daytime temperatures). Fertilize regularly during the growing season with a balanced orchid fertilizer. Adequate light, temperature fluctuations, and proper feeding are key to triggering blooms.
Cattleya orchids thrive in a well-draining potting medium, such as a mix of orchid bark, perlite, and charcoal. The medium should allow for good air circulation around the roots and should be replaced every 2-3 years or when it starts to break down.
Hardiness |
10 - 12 |
---|---|
Plant Type | Houseplants, Orchids |
Plant Family | Orchidaceae |
Genus | Cattleya |
Exposure | Partial Sun |
Height | 4" - 2' (10cm - 60cm) |
Spread | 4" - 2' (10cm - 60cm) |
Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Showy, Evergreen, Fragrant |
Landscaping Ideas | Patio And Containers |
Huy Thoai/Shutterstock
Hardiness |
10 - 12 |
---|---|
Plant Type | Houseplants, Orchids |
Plant Family | Orchidaceae |
Genus | Cattleya |
Exposure | Partial Sun |
Height | 4" - 2' (10cm - 60cm) |
Spread | 4" - 2' (10cm - 60cm) |
Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Showy, Evergreen, Fragrant |
Landscaping Ideas | Patio And Containers |
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Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
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