Cattleya


The Cattleya family is one of the most broadest, showiest, and popular plants of the orchid kingdom. They require a strong source of light, taking either a afternoon or all day sun (west or south facing or 2000-3000 foot candles). Fertilizer should be applied about once a month containing a good phosphorous mix at the least. The preferred temperature that they love ranges from 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit also requiring a period of temperatures down to 60-70 (preferably at night) in order to simulate their winter periods to spike out and flower. They can also take temperatures down to 50 F (although they wont like it) and are pretty hardy at times depending on the variety. Flower sizes range from 1.5″ to 7″ coming in a multitude of colors. Flowers typically last from 4-5 weeks depending on temperatures and almost every variety has a fragrance.