Cattleya orchid

(Cattleya hybrid)

August 1996

DESCRIPTION:

Flower has an irregular form with large outward spreading sepals and petals with wavy margins. A cuplike column has lip often in a contrasting color.

COLORS:

Pink, Violet, Yellow, Multi-Colored

AVAILABILITY:

Year Round

FRAGRANT?

No

USES IN ARRANGEMENT:

Focal point

SELECTION GUIDE:

Look for clear color, no drying edges or buised spots on flowers.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

Careful handling necessary to prevent bruising.

RECOMMENDED FOR HOME CULTURE?

Yes

HOME CULTURE NOTES:

Often grown in hobby greenhouses. Fertilize regularly year-round. Water on petals causes spotting.

PROPOGATION:

Division

CARE:

Before arranging, recut stems, remove foliage that will be under water & put in mix of warm water & floral preservative for a few hours or overnight. Place arrangement away from direct sunlight, heat vents, air conditioners and drafts. Water and remove dying blooms and foliage daily. To prolong vase life, every 4 - 5 days, recut stems & clean container thoroughly. Rearrange remaining flowers, adding mixture of warm water & floral preservative to your "new" arrangement. Floral preservative is recommended and is available commercially.

NOTES:

Most popular of all orchids. In Floragraphy this flower symbolizes "beautiful lady", "luxury", "I shall make your life a sweet one."

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Mary Miller, Project Director. Diane Relf, Content Specialist, Horticulture. Copyright 1989 by VCE.

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