Introducing the Exquisite Laelia x gouldiana - A Rare Orchid Marvel
Discover the allure of Laelia x gouldiana, a captivating natural primary hybrid born from the union of Laelia anceps x Laelia autumnalis. Native to the enchanting landscapes of Mexico, this orchid, though no longer found in the wild, thrives in the meticulous cultivation northeast of Mexico City, at elevations ranging from 1200 to 1900 meters. In its natural habitat, it graces the dry, overgrown areas of partially burnt mountains, finding sanctuary on mesquite trees in deep ravines.
Unique Characteristics: Laelia x gouldiana is a petite to medium-sized, cool-growing epiphyte featuring fusiform pseudobulbs enveloped by 4 to 6 scarious sheaths. Each pseudobulb proudly carries 2 to 3 lanceolate, bright green leaves, creating a visually striking appearance.
Floral Splendor: A true spectacle unfolds in the fall and winter when the orchid graces us with an apical, erect inflorescence reaching up to 30 inches (75 cm). Up to 10 blooms, mildly fragrant and truly awe-inspiring, adorn the plant. The bucket-like flowers, 5-10 cm in diameter, showcase vibrant pink to red-purple petals. The outer whorls are wide-spreading, while the inner whorls boast sharp tips and a dark middle plot, complemented by pink-purple side plots. The lip, with three bright yellow convex nerves, adds the perfect finishing touch.
Cultivation Tips:
Light: Laelia x gouldiana thrives under a light level of 30000-40000 lux, requiring bright lighting but sheltering from direct midday sunlight. Consistent, strong ventilation is essential for optimal growth.
Temperature: Maintain an average summer day temperature of 23-25 °C, with a nightly dip to 14-15 °C, ensuring a daily difference of 9-10 °C. In winter, the daytime temperature should hover around 21-23 °C, with nights at 9-10 °C, yielding a daily difference of 11-13 °C.
Humidity: Adapt the humidity levels to the seasons—65-70% in summer, approximately 60% in autumn, and a decrease to 50% in winter and spring.
Substrate, Growing Media, and Repotting: Plant in loose, quickly drying ground, favoring good air circulation and rapid root drying. Opt for medium-sized bark or cork pieces, or consider mounting on cork with assured high humidity.
Watering: During active growth, water regularly, allowing the substrate to dry between waterings. As autumn matures, reduce watering, extending dry periods.
Fertilizer: Weekly doses of 1/4-1/2 orchid fertilizer during the growing season are recommended. Shift to low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus fertilizer from mid-summer to autumn.
Rest Period: A vital dry resting period in winter ensures Laelia x gouldiana's health. Keep the plants relatively dry for 4-5 months, with occasional morning fogging. Cease fertilization until spring, resuming normal watering with the onset of new growths.
This is a blooming size division in a 5" clay pot, newly repotted, not established, about 1 to 2 years to bloom, grown from seed, limited!
Indulge in the rare beauty of Laelia x gouldiana and cultivate a breathtaking orchid sanctuary with these essential tips.
