Cattleya harrisoniana - Harrison's Cattleya

Cattleya harrisoniana

Native to: Brazil. Cattleya harrisoniana grows on rocks and trees in swampy forests located behind coastal sand dunes. Cattleya harrisoniana grows on the coastal plains of the States of Rio de Janeiro and Espirito Santo, sometimes being found up in the mountains (Serra dos Orgaos) following up the rivers that feed the plains. The highest altitude reported in the State of Rio de Janeiro is of almost 1000 meters.

Plant Size: Medium. Bifoliate. Cattleya harrisoniana has medium-sized (10 to 12 inches high) pseudobulbs are topped with 2 leaves.

Flower Size: 4 1/2 inches (11.25 cm)

Flower Description: The flowers of Cattleya harrisoniana are fragrant, long-lived and waxy. The basic color variation is on the intensity of the lavender. There are a few albino forms and very rare almost white-colored. A splash-petal form has been also found. Two to six blooms form on a 4 inch (10 cm) stem that emerges from a green sheath.

Bloom Season: Late Summer

Growing Temperature: Intermediate to Warm

Additional Information: Cattleya harrisoniana is easy to grow. Repot in the early spring after the new growth has started to form roots. This allows the plant to get established before it flowers. A coarse potting mix is best. Provide ample water, fertilizer, light and warmth during active growth. Provide a rest period after flowering. There is high year-round humidity in its native habitat. This species is closely related to Cattleya loddigesii.

Synonyms: Cattleya brownii; Cattleya candida; Cattleya harrisoniae; Cattleya harrisoniae; Cattleya harrisonii; Cattleya intermedia var. variegata; Cattleya loddigesii var. harrisoniana; Cattleya papeinsiana; Epidendrum harrisonianum