Introducing the Cattleya schilleriana – a petite marvel in the world of orchids! This small-growing member of the bifoliate tribe of cattleyas boasts two leaves on each pseudobulb, creating a compact and charming appearance. Mature plants stand at approximately 10 inches tall, adorned with individual flowers that span an impressive 4 inches across. With a well-grown plant, you can expect four to six flowers per inflorescence, creating a delightful spectacle.
The flowers of the Cattleya schilleriana are not just a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the senses. These deliciously fragrant blooms exhibit a waxy texture and a high sheen, capturing attention with their mesmerizing allure. Petals and sepals showcase varying shades of tan, brown, and mahogany, adorned with intensely colored spots. The pièce de résistance is the lip, a striking white canvas with rich magenta striations, measuring a perfect 2 inches across. Even from a distance, the brilliant lip invites viewers to explore the captivating world of Cattleya schilleriana.
What sets this orchid apart is its abundance of flowers per inflorescence, surpassing its counterpart, Cattleya aclandiae. Cattleya schilleriana offers four to five flowers compared to the one to two found in Cattleya aclandiae. Not only are the flowers larger at 4 inches, but their fragrance is headier and more penetrating. The mesmerizing striations of the lip further distinguish this orchid, creating an irresistible allure that surpasses the solid-colored lip of Cattleya aclandiae.
One of the many charms of the Cattleya schilleriana is the longevity of its blooms. Each flower graces your space for an impressive three to four weeks – twice as long as the blooms of Cattleya aclandiae. Additionally, cultivating this exquisite orchid is a breeze. Unlike the finicky Cattleya aclandiae, which demands a mount for growth, Cattleya schilleriana thrives in a pot. Its cultivation is no more challenging than that of the average bifoliate cattleya, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned orchid enthusiasts and those new to the world of orchid cultivation.
This is a blooming size in a 4 "pot, about 1 to 2 years to bloom, grown from seed, limited!
Bring the enchanting beauty of Cattleya schilleriana into your collection and indulge in the pleasure of growing and admiring this remarkable orchid. With its stunning visual appeal, delightful fragrance, and ease of cultivation, the Cattleya schilleriana is sure to become a cherished gem in your orchid garden.
