Cattleya forbesii

Cocktail orchid is an epiphytic, tropical herbaceous perennial in the orchid family (Orchidaceae). It is native to a narrow range of southeastern Brazil (Rio de Janeiro to Santa Catarina). The species epithet honors “Mr. Forbes,” who sent plants from Rio de Janeiro to England.

The cultural conditions for the cocktail orchid are the same as for other cattleya orchids, except this species does not like to dry out completely between waterings. The cocktail orchid requires consistently moist growing conditions. They tolerate temperatures between 60 and 90 degrees F and prefer moderate to high humidity. A south-facing window works well, and most plants will need 5,000 fc (footcandles) of light intensity to flower consistently (full, direct sunlight is approximately 10,000 fc by comparison). This species is one of the easiest cattleyas to grow.

The cocktail orchid is a bifoliate species, meaning it has two leaves per pseudobulb. It has large, waxy, fragrant flowers that have yellow-tan petals surrounding a central white tubular lip with a yellow interior. The flowers are long-lasting. The species has been used extensively in hybridization to impart yellow-bronze color, good flower substance and flat conformation and the ability to flower throughout the year; however, the small lip and narrow flower parts are dominant in hybrid offspring.

The cocktail orchid is grown as a greenhouse plant or houseplant. It can be grown outside in the summer.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems: If kept outside, the plant may be attacked by slugs, snails, thrips, scale insects and mealybugs. Search the plant periodically for spider mites. They can be problematic when the humidity is too low.

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Houseplants, Succulents, and Cacti", a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.

More information on Cattleya.