Vivi's Orchid Corner

June 2006 - Volume 11, Issue 6

Cattleya aurantiaca

Cattleya aurantiaca

Dear Orchid Friends:

Cattleya aurantiaca - oooh - bright orange! This wonderful species is native to Central America and Mexico. Such a delightful beauty.

Cattleya aurantiaca is a bifoliate orchid, which means that there are two leaves on the long pseudobulb. This plant is a medium variety, growing 18-24 inches tall. This is a vigorous grower and grows easily into a large specimen plant.

Provide high light as with other cattleyas. These orchids like intermediate to warmer climates. Cattleya aurantiaca is categorized as a relatively easy cattleya to grow due to its robust nature. Do let this orchid dry out in between waterings. Keep well ventilated and provide adequate humidity. Cattleyas do well in South Florida.

Cattleya aurantiaca produces clusters of brilliant orange or red-orange flowers. Flowers are small (1 ½ inches across). This orchid generally blooms late spring to fall. These flowers burst with color, are fragrant and have 'substance'. Cattleya aurantiaca is often used in breeding: they are robust growers and have gorgeous flowers.

Until next time,

Vivi