Cattleya porphyroglossa

Introducing the Purple Lipped Cattleya - A Rare Beauty from the Brazilian Swamps!

The Purple Lipped Cattleya (Cattleya porphyroglossa), native to the lush landscapes of Brazil, is an exquisite orchid species that captivates with its unique appearance and enchanting fragrance. This rare beauty is a true gem, flourishing in a few isolated habitats, making it a prized addition to any orchid enthusiast's collection.

Cultivation Tips: Light: Providing the right light conditions is crucial for the Purple Lipped Cattleya's well-being. Place it in an area with a light level of 25000-35000 lux, ensuring strong air movement, especially during flowering. In winter, maximize the light exposure, but if the plant was previously grown in shadier conditions, increase light levels gradually to avoid damage.

Temperature: Maintain a warm to cool climate to mimic the orchid's native environment. In summer, aim for an average day temperature of 27-29 °C and an average night temperature of 21-23 °C. In winter, slightly lower temperatures to an average day temperature of 25-26 °C and an average night temperature of 18-20 °C.

Humidity: This beauty thrives in a humid environment, preferring an average humidity level of 70-80% throughout most of the year, which can drop to 50-60% during winter. Light misting can be helpful in the mornings and evenings, but ensure not to create excessive humidity, which may spoil the flowers.

Substrate and Repotting: Plant your Purple Lipped Cattleya in pots or baskets with a thick, loose, quick-drying medium that allows the roots to dry rapidly after watering. Smaller pots, suitable for 1-2 years of growth, are recommended to prevent waterlogging. Repot or divide the plant only when new roots start growing to ensure successful rooting and avoid weakening the plant.

Watering: During the active growth phase, water the orchid generously but ensure the roots dry quickly after each watering. Checking the root color can help determine moisture levels; greenish or slightly translucent roots indicate dampness, while white roots are dry. Reduce water as new growths reach maturity in autumn to avoid fungal infections in the flower buds.

Fertilizer: Feed your Purple Lipped Cattleya once a week with 1/4-1/2 of the recommended dose of orchid fertilizer. During spring and mid-summer, opt for a fertilizer high in nitrogen, while in late summer and autumn, choose a phosphorus-rich fertilizer.

Rest Period: As new growths mature, provide a drier rest period for your orchid. During winter, reduce watering, but avoid letting the plant remain completely dry for extended periods. Adjust the fertilization during this time until watering increases in spring, especially if the plant experiences shorter days in higher latitudes.

The Purple Lipped Cattleya boasts elegant 3" (7.5 cm) flowers that bloom in spring and summer on a terminal, long-lived inflorescence. Its sweet fragrance, coupled with the rich color combination of yellow to olive-greenish brown flowers and a striking purple lip and column, make it a true show-stopper.

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

This delightful orchid is a must-have for collectors and enthusiasts alike. It is sure to be a stunning centerpiece in any orchid collection, reminiscent of its natural beauty found in the Brazilian swampy forests near the coast. Embrace the rarity and grace of the Purple Lipped Cattleya as it brings a touch of Brazil's exotic allure right into your home!