Introducing Cattleya tereticaulis – the epitome of Brazilian beauty and resilience. Originating from the rocky landscapes of Minas Gerais state in Brazil, this medium-sized orchid captivates with its unique features and charming floral display. A cool-growing lithophyte, Cattleya tereticaulis is a testament to the wonders of nature, thriving in its natural habitat with tall, erect, glaucous pseudobulbs and leaves that are powdered in glaucous white, giving them a distinct grayish-green hue.
In the spring, Cattleya tereticaulis graces us with its magnificent presence, unveiling a 16.8" [42 cm] long inflorescence carrying 7 to 9 flowers. The reflexed posture of these blooms, evenly spread along the inflorescence, sets this species apart from its close relative, Cattleya crispata. While Cattleya crispata showcases 3 to 5 flowers crowded towards the apex in the winter, Cattleya tereticaulis presents a more elegant and evenly distributed floral arrangement in the spring.
The leaves of this orchid, like other rupicolous laelias, adopt a nearly vertical posture to minimize exposure to direct sunlight – a distinctive characteristic defining the genus. This upright stance not only enhances its visual appeal but also reflects its adaptation to the harsh conditions of its native rocky habitat.
Cultivating Cattleya tereticaulis is a rewarding experience. This tall, spiked orchid, adorned with sparkling pink-purple flowers, demands maximum sunlight to thrive. Provide intermediate conditions and plant it in well-drained media within a small pot, mimicking the rocky environment it calls home. During its active growth phase, be generous with both fertilizer and water, ensuring that this resilient orchid receives the care it deserves.
This is a blooming size in a 4" clay pot, newly repotted, not established, about 1 to 2 years to bloom, grown from seed, limited!
Bring the allure of Brazilian landscapes into your space with Cattleya tereticaulis – a captivating orchid that combines elegance with adaptability, making it a delightful addition to any orchid enthusiast's collection.
