(Cattleya lueddemanniana f. alba x Cattleya lueddemanniana f. coerulea)

Unifoliate Cattleya species, native to Venezuela, where it can be found growing at sea level along the northern coast, up the Cordillera de la Costa Central coastal mountain range, to the state of Lara slightly further inland (an elevation of about 1,800 feet). Flowers are showy, fragrant, and may bloom in shades of pink, lavender, white, or coerulea, depending on regional origins. Coastal luedds are generally larger-flowered and lighter in color, while those hailing from further inland tend to have smaller flowers in darker shades.

While similar in many ways to other Cattleya species (e.g., C. mossiae and C. maxima), C. lueddemanniana can be distinguished by the apex of its column which bears a pair of wings or hooks.

Blooms in the spring and occasionally again in the fall.

Grown from seed—in this case, a cross of the coerulea and alba forms of the species.

Plants Available: The plant pictured in full is the plant currently available.

Orchid Care: Grow in high light (very bright, indirect; some morning sun is okay). Provide moderate humidity and strong air circulation. Plants may be grown potted or mounted. For potted plants, use a large aggregate bark mix and, ideally, a well-ventilated terracotta pot. When necessary, plants can be repotted after flowering when the new growth puts out new roots. Whether potted or mounted, water generously while plants are actively growing, but allow thorough drying in between.

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