Lily of the Valley Orchid Cuitlauzina pulchella

The lily-of-the-valley orchid is a tropical, epiphytic, evergreen herbaceous perennial in the orchid family (Orchidaceae). It is native to high-elevation rainforests of Mexico and Central America. It is one of eight species in the genus. The species epithet is Latin for “beautiful.”

In cultivation, it is typically grown as a basket or pot plant in partial shade with bright but indirect light.  Because this orchid is from the mountains, cool to intermediate temperatures are ideal. It dislikes excessive heat. The potting mix should be a mixture of medium fir bark with added perlite or charcoal along.  Lily-of-the-valley orchid dislikes disturbance of its roots and should be repotted only when necessary (when the medium has decayed and stays too wet). Plants flower best when slightly pot-bound and when the plants are large. Water should be provided when the potting medium dries. During the winter months, the plant  should have a dry rest period.

As it is difficult to grow and flower, this species is not especially common in cultivation, nor has it been used much in hybridization. Its flowers are showy, fragrant and long-lasting. 

It is best grown as a greenhouse plant by specialist orchid growers.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Root rot can occur from overwatering. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to turn brown. Too little light may cause the plant to become leggy and reduce flowering.