Cattleya warscewiczii var. coerulea x Cattleya maxima var. coerulea, is a stunning hybrid that brings together the best of both parent species. This is an orchid that showcases large, fragrant flowers with a striking bluish-lavender hue, making it a standout addition to any collection. The combination of Cattleya warscewiczii, known for its robust and showy blooms, with Cattleya maxima, admired for its rich colors and unique lip markings, creates a hybrid that is both visually captivating and easy to grow.
Plant Features:
- Cattleya warscewiczii var. coerulea: Native to northwestern Colombia, this species thrives as a warm to cool-growing epiphyte. It produces thick, shiny, cigar-shaped pseudobulbs with a single, apical, leathery leaf. The flowers, which bloom in summer, are large and fragrant, featuring pale rosy-pink sepals and petals with a rich purple lip, accented by yellow blotches in the throat.
- Cattleya maxima var. coerulea: Found in the coastal forests of Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, and northern Peru, this species is known for its medium-sized, fragrant flowers that bloom in late autumn. The flowers vary in color, with the coerulea form displaying a beautiful lavender-blue hue with a distinctive yellow stripe down the center of the lip.
This hybrid brings together the large, showy flowers of Cattleya warscewiczii with the striking coloration and fragrant blooms of Cattleya maxima. The result is an orchid that boasts impressive size, rich color, and a delightful fragrance. The bluish-lavender tones of the flowers, accented by the yellow lip markings inherited from Cattleya maxima, make this hybrid a true collector’s piece.
Cultivation Tips:
Light: This hybrid thrives in medium to high light, requiring 25,000-50,000 lux. Ensure strong air movement to prevent overheating, especially in bright light conditions. Position the plant close to the light source without causing sunburn on the leaves.
Temperature: The hybrid should be kept in intermediate conditions, balancing the warmth needs of C. maxima with the cooler tolerance of C. warscewiczii.
Humidity: Maintain humidity levels of 70-80% year-round. Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent fungal diseases and root rot, especially in high humidity environments.
Watering: During active growth, water thoroughly, allowing excess water to drain freely. Adjust watering frequency based on temperature and humidity, increasing it in hot, dry conditions and reducing it in cooler, more humid weather. In winter, allow the plant to dry slightly between waterings, but do not let it remain dry for extended periods. The pseudobulbs should be slightly shriveled, but not excessively so.
Growing Medium: Use a well-draining medium such as medium-grade bark, sphagnum moss, or a mix of both. Consider mounting the plant on tree fern or cork if high humidity can be maintained. Repot or remount when new roots begin to emerge to minimize transplant shock.
Fertilizing: During the growing season, fertilize weekly with a balanced orchid fertilizer at 1/4 to 1/2 strength. Flush the potting medium with clear water every few weeks to prevent salt buildup, which can harm the roots.
Rest Period: Reduce watering and fertilization during the plant’s rest period in winter. Mist the plant lightly on sunny days to maintain humidity without overwatering.
This is a T6" imported bare root orchid; newly repotted in a 4" clay pot; about 3 to 4 years to bloom; Grown from seed; Limited!
Cattleya warscewiczii var. coerulea x Cattleya maxima var. coerulea is a remarkable hybrid that combines the best features of its parent species. With large, fragrant, bluish-lavender flowers and a striking appearance, this orchid thrives in intermediate conditions with bright light, good air circulation, and careful watering. Ideal for orchid enthusiasts seeking a visually stunning and fragrant addition to their collection, this hybrid offers a unique blend of beauty and ease of cultivation.