Cattleya labiata

Crimson Cattleya is a flowering, tropical epiphyte orchid native to the northeastern area of Brazil, in the states of Pernambuco and Alagoas. They grow to different sizes depending on the area from which they originate with those growing in Pernambuco smaller, with small lilac colored flowers, while those in Alagoas tend to be larger and white. An epiphyte grows in the branches of tall jungle trees where its fleshy rhizomes wrap around the branches for stability. It gets its nutrients from the air, water and decaying plant matter that collect around the rhizomes. The plant requires quick draining soil, high humidity, specialized light requirements, and high temperatures. However, Cattleya are among the easiest orchids to grow and the reward is a spectacular, fragrant flower.

Crimson Cattleya grow best in bright, indirect light and the leaves will be lime green in color when the light levels are optimal. A dark leaf indicates insufficient sunlight.  A south-facing window works well and most plants will need 5,000 fc (foot candles) of light intensity to flower consistently (full, direct sunlight is approximately 10,000 fc by comparison). As a house plant, it requires a potting soil of open rooting compost (for example, coarse redwood or fir bark, epiphytic orchid mix) for circulation of air and water. The plants tolerate temperatures between 60 and 90 degrees F and prefer higher humidity levels. Humidity can be achieved by placing a saucer filled with medium sized pebbles under the plant. Keep a small amount of water in the saucer but never allow the pot to sit in water. The rhizomes very quickly succumb to root rot. If that isn't enough to maintain the right level of humidity, mist in the morning so the leaves can dry out before the temperatures drop at night. A mature plant will need water once a week. Let the potting mix mostly dry out between waterings, but never let it fully dry. Water the plant by placing it in a sink and running a not too strong stream of lukewarm water through the pot for a minute or so. Let the pot drain well before returning it to it's place. Do not use salt-softened water or water cooler than 50° F. Do not use ice cubes.

The plant has three main parts – thick, fleshy rhizomes for support with a fleshy covering that acts as a water retention area, one or two leaves and pseudobulbs. The pseudobulbs, 1-3 inches thick, are food and water storage organs that also bear the flowers on single naked stems. When a plant has seven or more pseudobulbs it can be divided. Fertilize regularly after watering with a balanced fertilizer twice a month at half strength or weekly at quarter strength. Repot as needed (usually every two years) in spring or just before new roots sprout from the rhizome. Repotting is needed when the rhizome of the plant protrudes over the edge of the pot or when the potting medium breaks down and drains poorly.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:

If kept outside, the plant may be attacked by slugs, snails, thrips, scale insects and mealy bugs. Search the plant periodically for spider mites. They can  be an indication of low humidity.

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

More information on Cattleya.