Cattleya gaskelliana var. coerulea

Cattleya gaskelliana var. coerulea is a standout orchid known for its exquisite whitish-blue sepals and a distinctive dark midrib on the lavender-disked lip. The forelobe of the flower showcases a stunning blue to blue-lavender hue. This variety is a prolific grower and produces large, 7-inch fragrant flowers with a delicate texture. It is native to Venezuela, thriving as both an epiphyte and lithophyte in the Eastern Coastal Mountain Range, specifically in northeastern Anzuategui, southern Sucre, and northern Monagas.

Cattleya gaskelliana var. coerulea flowers in mid-May in the United States, perfectly filling the gap between the blooming periods of Cattleya mossiae and Cattleya warscewiczii. This variety boasts large, 7-inch flowers with a pleasant and noticeable fragrance, making it a standout in any orchid collection.

Cultivation Tips:

1. Light and Temperature:

   • Provide ample sunlight and airflow for optimal growth and flowering.
   • Maintain night temperatures between 58°F–60°F and day temperatures between 80°F–85°F.

2. Watering:

   • Begin watering sparingly when new growth starts in early February.
   • Increase watering as the growth matures, ensuring the medium dries out between waterings to prevent root rot.

3. Flowering:

   • Flowers typically appear as the growth matures, without a resting period.
   • Expect three to five flowers per stem, blooming for about three weeks.
   • Place the plant in the coolest part of the greenhouse during flowering to extend bloom duration.

4. Growth Cycle:

   • New growth starts in early February and completes by mid-May.
   • Post-blooming, plants may produce a second growth without impacting the next year’s flowering.

5. Repotting:

   • Repot only when new roots emerge from the lead pseudobulb.

Cattleya gaskelliana var. coerulea's natural habitats range from tropical, humid cloud forests to drier areas where it grows on rocks in nearly full sun. Due to extensive collection, it is now rare in some regions, emphasizing the importance of responsible cultivation and conservation efforts.

These are blooming size plant in a 5” clay pot about 1 to 2 years to bloom; Grown from Seed! Limited!

Cattleya gaskelliana var. coerulea is an exceptional orchid that offers beauty, fragrance, and ease of cultivation. Its unique flowering season and attractive features make it a valuable addition to any orchid collection. With proper care, this variety will reward growers with stunning blooms and vigorous growth year after year.