Cattleya Alliance: Epilaeliocattleya Volcano Trick 'Red Lava'

Introducing the Epilaeliocattleya Volcano Trick 'Red Lava,' a stunning orchid hybrid that's sure to add a touch of fiery elegance to your indoor or outdoor garden. This remarkable orchid is the result of a cross between the Ctt. Trick or Treat and the Epi. stamfordianum, combining the best of both worlds to create a show-stopping beauty.

Floral Marvel: Volcano Trick 'Red Lava' truly lives up to its name with its multiple vibrant orange and yellow-spotted flowers adorning a single inflorescence. The brilliant orange hue is accented by striking red patches, creating a mesmerizing contrast that is bound to catch the eye and ignite your passion for orchids.

Growing Tips: To ensure the health and vitality of your Volcano Trick 'Red Lava,' here are some essential cultivation tips:

1. Light Requirements: This orchid thrives in a bright and sunny spot. Provide it with plenty of indirect sunlight, such as a windowsill with filtered light or a spot under a shade cloth if grown outdoors. Avoid exposing it to direct, scorching sunlight, which can harm the delicate flowers and leaves.

2. Watering: Maintaining the right moisture level is crucial for the well-being of your orchid. When grown in a charcoal medium, daily watering is recommended, especially during the growing season. Ensure that the medium remains consistently damp but not waterlogged. Allow the top layer of the medium to dry out slightly between watering sessions to prevent root rot.

3. Temperature and Humidity: Volcano Trick 'Red Lava' is a warm blooming plant, thriving in temperatures between 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Keep it away from drafts, extreme temperature fluctuations, and cold windows during the winter months. Maintaining a humidity level of around 50% is ideal for this orchid. If the air in your home is dry, consider using a humidity tray or a humidifier to create a more suitable environment.

4. Repotting: As your orchid matures, it may produce side branches with additional flowers. When repotting becomes necessary, choose a well-draining orchid mix suitable for epiphytic orchids. Typically, you should repot every 2-3 years or when you notice overcrowding or deteriorating media.

5. Fertilizing: During the growing season, feed your Volcano Trick 'Red Lava' with a balanced orchid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks. Reduce or eliminate feeding during the dormant winter period.

6. Pruning and Maintenance: Regularly inspect your plant for dead or yellowing leaves, spent blooms, or any signs of pests or diseases. Prune away damaged or unhealthy growth to encourage new shoots and maintain the overall health of your orchid.

This is a blooming size in a 4" pot, about 1 to 2 years to bloom, grown from seed, limited!

With the right care and attention, your Epilaeliocattleya Volcano Trick 'Red Lava' will flourish, rewarding you with its spectacular, fiery blooms year after year. This orchid is a true masterpiece of nature and a captivating addition to any orchid enthusiast's collection.