Introducing the Exquisite Cattleya warneri var. suavissima:
Elevate your orchid collection with the captivating beauty of Cattleya warneri var. suavissima, a delightful species that promises to enchant both novice and seasoned orchid enthusiasts alike. Renowned for its large, fragrant flowers, this orchid variety showcases mesmerizing light purplish-pink petals, complemented by a deeper purple lip. The sheer elegance of Cattleya warneri var. suavissima makes it a must-have addition to your orchid garden.
Replacing its predecessor, Cattleya warneri, the var. suavissima variant offers enhanced features, including larger flower size and a more refined color palette. The lavender hue is unusually clear, and the ease of cultivation ensures success for hobbyists of all levels. With numerous color forms available, this species becomes a coveted gem for collectors seeking diversity in their orchid display.
Cultivation Tips:
Location: Place your Cattleya warneri var. suavissima in a bright, warm window, ensuring exposure to indirect sunlight. During the summer months, consider moving the plant outdoors to a sheltered spot. Ideal for winter gardens, the orchid thrives in well-lit areas with temperatures not falling below 15°C or exceeding 30°C for extended periods.
Watering: In summer, allow the plant to slightly dry between waterings, avoiding waterlogged conditions. Exercise caution during winter, maintaining careful watering practices to prevent overhydration.
Temperature: Provide a warm and moist atmosphere during active growth, particularly in the winter when the plant is thriving. Keep winter nights above 18°C to ensure optimal conditions for Cattleya warneri var. suavissima.
Sunlight: Unlike some Cattleya species, this variant prefers slightly less sunlight. Monitor the leaf color, aiming for a light green appearance to indicate ideal light levels.
Growing Conditions: While not overly challenging to grow, Cattleya warneri var. suavissima has unique requirements. It actively grows during the winter, requiring warm and moist conditions that may be challenging to provide in colder climates. Hang it near the sunniest part of your greenhouse during winter, adjusting for the specific needs of this variant.
Flowering: Expect a well-flowered Cattleya warneri var. suavissima to produce four to five flowers on a spike. Ensure you place the plant back on the bench as soon as buds appear to avoid undesirable high temperatures and intense sunlight, which can harm developing buds.
Repotting: Only repot when the orchid begins sending out a flush of new roots, preferably during the warm summer months. Water thoroughly and let the medium dry out completely before the next watering to prevent root rot.
This is a blooming size division in a 4" clay pot, newly repotted, not established, about 1 to 2 years to bloom, grown from seed, limited!
Embark on a journey of orchid cultivation with Cattleya warneri var. suavissima, a species that combines elegance, fragrance, and ease of care to elevate your orchid collection to new heights.
