Cattleya (2-3+ Buds)
The Cattleya orchid crowned the "Queen of Orchids" is most notable for its large, fragrant, showpiece flowers popularly used for corsages, wedding arrangements, and other grand displays.
These orchids are relatively easy to grow and will happily grow into large display plants. Please refer to the following for basic care:
- Lighting: Bright, shaded morning light is ideal.
- Water: Thoroughly water ONLY when media is dry.
- Temperature: Intermediate growers. Ideal temperatures range from 55-85F with a minimum 10-15 degree differential between day and night.
- Fertilize: You can use a balanced fertilizer. High potassium and phosphorus best to develop big blooms.
See care guide for greater details: Cattleya Care Guide
Note: All Cattleyas listed under this category are currently either in sheath (buds forming) or swollen buds (ready to open) unless otherwise described. We do our best to ensure that these orchid plants arrive with buds or just beginning to open so you or your recipient can enjoy the blooms.
There are some varieties of Cattleya that go through a color change as the blooms mature. If you happen to receive one that does not quite look like the one shown in our sample photo, please place the plant in an area where it can receive bright light. Over the next few days as the bloom matures, the color will deepen. These types we call "color evolving" where the mature blooms may be drastically different from the bloom color at initial opening.
Upon receiving a budded/blooming orchid plant, please DO NOT repot the plant into another pot right away. Any media change will cause some stress and shock to the plant possibly causing the buds to drop. Allow the flower to finish blooming & then transplant. We will not honor our guarantee if you immediately repot the plant & flowers abort.