Cattleya Orchids
Cattleyas are the classic corsage orchids, with big, ruffled and often fragrant flowers in almost every color. Their key needs are bright light and a chance to dry out between waterings. Each pseudobulb stores water, so they forgive a missed watering far better than overwatering. You'll also find Laelia and hybrids like Rhyncholaeliocattleya here.
How to choose Cattleya Orchids
- Mini vs standard: mini Cattleyas fit a windowsill and often bloom more than once a year.
- Bare root: many Cattleyas ship bare root. Pot them in coarse bark as soon as they arrive.
- Fragrance: many standard types are strongly scented. Check the listing if fragrance matters to you.
Cattleya Orchids at a glance
| What | Details |
|---|---|
| Light | Bright, with some direct morning or filtered sun |
| Water | When the bark is dry, about every 7 to 10 days |
| Medium | Coarse bark in a pot with plenty of drainage |
| Humidity | 40 to 60% |
| Temperature | 60 to 85°F |
| Bloom | Usually once a year from a sheath on the newest pseudobulb |
How to repot a Cattleya
- Repot just as new roots start growing from the base of the newest pseudobulb, usually after flowering.
- Remove the old bark and trim dead, hollow roots with sterile shears.
- Choose a pot that leaves about 2 years of growing room in front of the newest growth.
- Set the oldest pseudobulb against the pot's edge, with the rhizome level with the bark surface.
- Fill with coarse bark, stake the plant firmly and wait about a week before watering.
Common problems
- Dark green leaves, no flowers: Too little light. Healthy Cattleya leaves are light green.
- Shriveled pseudobulbs: Underwatering or rotted roots. Check the roots before adding water.
- Sheath with no buds: Some sheaths stay empty for months. Be patient and keep the light bright.
FAQ
How much light does a Cattleya need?
Much more than a moth orchid. A south or west window with a sheer curtain is ideal.
Why won't my Cattleya bloom?
Usually low light. Move it brighter and the next growth should flower.
Are Cattleya orchids fragrant?
Many are, especially in the morning. Fragrance varies by hybrid.
What's a Laelia?
A closely related orchid genus. Laelia and Cattleya are often crossed and need the same care.
Related collections
Orchids · Phalaenopsis Moth Orchids · Dendrobium Orchids · Oncidium Orchids · Live Plants
