Cattleya bicolor var. albescens

Elevate your orchid collection with the exquisite Cattleya bicolor var. albescens. This mesmerizing orchid hails from the lush landscapes of Brazil, where it thrives as an epiphyte in trees or as a lithophyte on rocks near water bodies. Its natural habitat, nestled at altitudes of 1000 to 1400 meters above sea level, provides valuable insight into its preferred care and cultivation conditions.

Cattleya bicolor var. albescens is a medium to large orchid that adds an air of sophistication to any orchid collection. Its distinct features include long and slender pseudobulbs, measuring up to 75 cm, which cluster gracefully. These pseudobulbs are adorned with two apical leaves that are oblong-lorate, coriaceous, and approximately 18 cm in length and 5 cm in width.

One of the highlights of this orchid is its captivating bloom, which graces us with its presence in the spring and early summer, occasionally appearing in the fall. The terminal inflorescence, emerging from a large basal sheath, carries 1 to 7 flowers that are a sight to behold. These flowers are not only highly fragrant but also visually stunning, with their green petals and pinkish to white lips, measuring 7-9 cm in diameter. The petals take on a unique rhombus-to-egg shape, adding to their charm.

Cultivation Tips:

Light: Cattleya bicolor var. albescens is a light-loving orchid that can tolerate direct sunlight up to 65,000 lux without harm. However, in intense light, it may acquire red-violet freckles or a yellowish shade on its leaves and pseudobulbs, which typically disappear in the winter. Adequate lighting is key to encouraging flowering in this orchid.

Temperature: This orchid prefers a moderately warm temperature regime. In a home setting, it adapts well to a range of temperatures, but it thrives with a daytime temperature between 20-28°C and a nighttime temperature of 16-20°C. Maintaining a 4-6°C temperature drop at night (ideally 10-12°C lower) is ideal for its growth.

Humidity: Cattleya bicolor var. albescens thrives in conditions with high humidity, similar to its natural habitat. If you're cultivating it in a dry environment, regular ventilation is essential to prevent fungal and bacterial diseases in stagnant, moist air.

Substrate and Repotting: This orchid is typically grown in clay pots with a layer of stones at the bottom for stability. A suitable substrate includes a mix of coniferous tree bark and sphagnum moss, layered with bark at the bottom and moss or alternating layers above. For those growing on blocks, add a layer of moss between the roots and the block to prevent rapid drying. Repot only when necessary, typically when the plant outgrows its pot or the substrate is in poor condition. Ideal timing is when new shoots reach about 5 cm in size.

Watering: Adjust your watering frequency and quantity based on temperature and light intensity. Orchids on blocks benefit from daily morning watering to allow their roots to dry by evening. Potted orchids should have excess water drain freely to avoid root rot. Ensure the substrate dries out between waterings.

Fertilizer: During active growth, fertilize this orchid with a diluted fertilizer (1/2 the recommended concentration) for every third watering. Alternate between root and foliar feeding. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (e.g., NPK = 3-3-3 or 8-8-8) is ideal. Adjust the fertilizer type as new shoots grow.

Rest Period: Cattleya bicolor var. albescens experiences a winter rest period, characterized by reduced light and cooling. Maintain daytime temperatures of 16-18°C and nighttime temperatures of 12-14°C. Water sparingly during this period, as the orchid may struggle to absorb moisture due to reduced light. With the arrival of new shoots in spring, resume regular care.

This is a T3" in a 2" net pot about 2 to 3 years to blooms, Grown from Seed! Limited!

Cattleya bicolor var. albescens is a magnificent orchid that rewards dedicated care with its stunning, fragrant blooms. With these cultivation tips, you'll be on your way to nurturing a thriving and vibrant orchid that will undoubtedly become the centerpiece of your collection.