Vivi's Orchid Corner

a friendly, informative orchid column

Vivi's Orchid Corner

December, 1998; Article 35

Cattleyonia Jamaica Red 'O.C.'

Dear Orchid Friends:
This lovely little plant bears charming flowers of rosy crimson colors. Cattleytonias are crosses between Cattleyasand Broughtonias and are abbreviated Ctna. Broughtonias are native to Jamaica and are epiphytes. There are two species in the genus Broughtonia: Broughtonia sanuinea and Broughtonia negrilensis.
The hybrid, Ctna. Jamaica Red 'O.C', is a compact plant preferring to be pot-bound. They also grow well mounted on bark or cork. Psuedobulbs are smooth, full and round. The short psuedobulbs bear two fleshy leaves.

Flowers: Flowers are round, flat and a gorgeous red color. Clusters of four to five crimson flowers are borne on a tall single stem. Flowers are approximately one and a half (1 1/2") inches across and slightly resemble pansies! Sepals are slender, while petals are wider and fan outward at the edges. The wide flat lip is ruffled and also fans outward. Cattleyatonia Jamaica Red 'O.C.' has delicate veining on sepals, petals and lip. The column and proximal portion of the lip is tinged with just a hint of yellow. During the day, the flower shimmers with a slight irridescence. This orchid flowers easily when given proper conditions. These orchids can flower various times throughout the year if grown in the right conditions. Bright light is essential to produce flowers. During the winter months, place them in a location to receive optimal light.

Cultural Requirements: Grow Cattleyatonias with your cattleyas. Provide high, bright light. The bright light and sunshine will promote flowering. They enjoy high humidity so mist frequently on hot, sunny days. Some growers advocate keeping watering to a minimum. I have better results when I keep them moist with a brief drying out period in between waterings. Fertilize every week with a dilute solution of 20 - 20 - 20 fertilizer. Cattleyatonias like warm temperatures and therefore are ideal for warm climates.

Jamaica has blessed us with Broughtonias. Growers are having great results using Broughtonia sanguinea as a parent with cattleyas. The unique color of the flower is highly admired by hobbyists and growers alike. Compact cattleyas are gaining in popularity and the brillliant crimson flowers are a delight to the eyes. The Cattleyatonias are relatively easy to grow and are perfect if space is a concern.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
Until next time,

Vivi