Overview
Scientific Name: Cattleya mossiae
Common Names: Easter Orchid, Moss's Cattleya, Flor de Mayo
Family: Orchidaceae
Origin: Venezuela and Colombia
Description
Type: Epiphytic orchid (grows on another plant but not parasitic on it)
Height: Up to 60 cm (24 inches)
Pseudobulbs: (A solid bulblike enlargement of the stem) Oblong, 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) long, with 2 leaves at the apex.
Leaves: Thick, leathery, and elongated, up to 20 cm (8 inches) long and 5 cm (2 inches) wide.
Flowers: Large, fragrant, usually pink to lavender with a yellow throat. They can be up to 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) in diameter.
Blooming Season: Primarily spring, around Easter, hence the common name.
Flower Structure: Sepals and petals are similar, with the lip (labellum) prominently colored and often ruffled.
Habitat
Natural Habitat: Found in the cloud forests of Venezuela and Colombia, typically at elevations between 800 and 1500 meters (2600 to 4900 feet).
Climate: Prefers warm, humid conditions with good air circulation and moderate to high light levels.
Cultivation
Temperature: Intermediate to warm temperatures (15-30°C or 59-86°F).
Light: Bright, indirect light; avoid direct midday sun.
Humidity: High humidity (60-80%) is ideal.
Watering: Keep the growing medium moist but not waterlogged. Allow the medium to dry slightly between waterings.
Potting Medium: Well-draining medium, such as a mix of bark, charcoal, and perlite.
Feeding: Regular feeding with a organic orchid fertilizer during the growing season.
Propagation
Division: Best propagated by dividing the pseudobulbs when the plant becomes large enough.
Seed: Can also be propagated from seed, though this is more complex and typically done in controlled environments like laboratories.
Conservation
Status: Not considered endangered, but habitat destruction and over-collection can impact local populations.
Protection: Cultivation and propagation in botanical gardens and by hobbyists help conserve this species.
Cultural Significance
Symbolism: In Venezuela, it is considered a national symbol and is highly valued for its beauty and fragrance.
Uses: Primarily ornamental, used in floral arrangements and as a potted plant for decoration.
Cattleya wagneri. White Orchid
Interesting Facts
Named in honor of Mrs. William Moss who introduced the species to European cultivation.
Its blooming period around Easter time has made it a popular choice for festive decorations.
Awards: It has received several awards from orchid societies for its beauty and cultivation potential.
Care Tips
Monitor for Pests: Keep an eye out for common orchid pests like aphids, scale, and spider mites.
Repotting: Should be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the growing medium and provide space for growth.
Pruning: Remove dead or yellowing leaves and spent flower spikes to encourage new growth and flowering.
By providing proper care and maintaining ideal growing conditions, the Easter Orchid can be a stunning addition to any orchid collection or garden.
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