Cattleya luteola (4N)

Description

Species Description

Cattleya luteola is perhaps the smallest of the Cattleya species.  This super mini comes from South America and is a great choice for people who love cattleyas but have space limitations.  Even the plant form on this guy is beautiful–almost a creeping growth habit.  Although it may be grown mounted, most people grow it potted.  C. luteola grows well in cool to warm temperatures and moderate to low light.  Basically, it takes anything you give it.  Art Chadwick wrote a great essay on this species if you want more information.  Flowers are yellow (thus the name), and surprisingly large for the plant size.  Although many mention needing a winter rest, in winter just be sure it dries out thoroughly between waterings.  Most of you probably already do that, so you’re all set.

Blooming size plants.

General Info:  Cattleya

Cattleyas were once synonymous with the word “orchid.”  Now more people equate Phalaenopsis with orchids, but a well grown and flowered Cattleya is a sight to behold.  Cattleyas are tropical species that are native to Central and South America.  Each species’ geographical range determines its temperature preferences, however most are cool to warm growing.  Cattleyas are considered a high light group that need ample light to flower well.  In the house, a southern or western window is good, and I suggest growing outdoors in a shaded spot for the summer.  People will argue about how much light is enough/too much.  I opt for the lower end to keep my plants looking better.  Very high light may (possibly) improve blooming but leave you with an ugly plant (in my opinion).

As epiphytic/lithophytic species, these guys are adapted to dry out frequently–thus the fat roots.  Make sure that your cattleyas don’t sit with wet roots for weeks at a time.  In warm conditions, more water is fine; in cooler conditions, water less frequently.  These are plants that do not want to be overwatered.  Cattleyas would love to be watered almost like vandas if you have the time and patience:  water 2-3 times a week but keep them in little to no media so they dry out in hours.

The American Orchid Society has a number of articles on the Cattleya Alliance.  I think this one is a good place to start for cattleya beginners (although there are a few points I would argue about).  Chadwick and Sons has a really excellent general orchid care essay, also.  If you are new to orchids, definitely read it!