
Pastoral Innocence: A huge, classic corsage-type orchid in brilliant white with a yellow throat; a December bloomer with a citrusy scent. Photos by Maria Lamb
Cattleya orchids used to be called the Queen of Orchids for their showy blooms and were the Prom Queen’s favorite corsage. The Cattleya is still very popular and will always be an impressive addition to any orchid collection.

This Cattleya hybrid, a light purple flower with a yellow throat, is very fragrant. A November bloomer, it lost its tag during Hurricane Irma.

Green Glade “Shungetsu,” a greenishyellow flower with frilly lips; a December bloomer with a mild scent.

This stunning, bubblegum-pink orchid bloomed one week after Irma, with a mild spicy scent. It lost its tag, but is believed to be a Cattleya labiata.
I usually wind the fishing line around the orchid making sure orchid is tightly attached to the trunk and does not move. Fishing lines are invisible, strong, and in about a year or two will wear out and fall apart. By then, your Cattleyas will be firmly anchored to the tree by its own roots. Water does not accumulate at the roots, so there are fewer chances of root rot.
For best results make sure the water sprinkler heads are positioned to give them a spray at least twice a week. Cattleyas need periods of dryness between watering, so don’t over water.
Though not heavy feeders, Cattleyas can benefit from an occasional boost of very diluted MiracleGro. When in doubt, it is best to err on the side of too little than too much. Happy orchids give forth beautiful flowers once or even twice a year.
Enjoy your Cattleyas in the wild!
For more information on Calusa Garden Club and its February program, please visit www.calusa.org.
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