Laelia esalqueana

Laelia esalqueana, a star-shaped Laelia often referred to as a "Rupicolus Laelia," is renowned for its unique habitat and striking appearance. Originating from the rocky, mountainous terrains of the state of Sao Paulo, Brazil, this species was named in 1973 after the Escola Superior de Agricultura in Brazil. These orchids grow in almost full sun on rocky surfaces, often in pockets of poor soil.

Features:

• Size: True miniatures, growing to only 3 inches (8 cm) high.
• Flowers: Bright yellow-gold flowers, typically two to five per plant, held just above the plant on a stout inflorescence for a stunning display.
• Structure: The plant features squat, fat pseudobulbs with thick fleshy leaves, providing excellent water storage for dry environments.

Cultivation Tips for Laelia esalqueana:

• Lighting:

  • Requires high light to flower, needing 2500 to 3500 foot candles of light for several hours each day.
  • For indoor growing under lights, place them close to the middle of fluorescent lights and about 4 inches below the lights to provide the brightest light at the highest intensity.

• Temperature:

  • Intermediate temperatures are ideal, with 55°F (13°C) at night and 70°F (21°C) during the day.
  • They can endure much cooler night temperatures in their native habitat without harm.
  • A nighttime temperature drop is almost required to induce blooming, with some growers recommending temperatures around 50°F (10°C) if normal intermediate temperatures do not induce blooming.

• Humidity:

  • Requires good humidity to thrive.
  • During the dry winter rest, only occasional misting is necessary.

• Watering:

  • After flowering, the plant needs a rest period until new growth starts, at which point watering should be resumed.
  • In their native habitat, they experience dry conditions, so it's important to allow the substrate to dry out between waterings to mimic their natural environment.

• Substrate:

  • These orchids can be grown in well-draining media suitable for their epiphytic nature, often requiring rocky or coarse substrates to simulate their native rocky conditions.

This is a blooming size imported bare root orchid; newly repotted in a 4" clay pot; about 1 to 2 years to bloom; Grown from seed; Limited!

Laelia esalqueana is a captivating miniature orchid with bright yellow-gold flowers and robust, water-storing pseudobulbs, perfect for collectors and enthusiasts of the Cattleya alliance. Thriving in high light and intermediate temperatures, this orchid requires a specific care regimen to mimic its natural rocky habitat. With proper lighting, temperature drops, and careful watering, Laelia esalqueana can add a touch of exotic elegance to any orchid collection. Its compact size and vibrant flowers also make it a popular choice for breeding smaller-sized orchids within the Cattleya alliance.