Cattleya jenmanii

Cattleya jenmanii

Native to: Guyana, Venezuela. Cattleya jenmanii was found growing in dense jungles around the Gran Sabana in the southeastern corner of Venezuela at 300 to 600 meters in elevation. Generally, they prefer growing near rivers and streams.

Plant Size: Compact. Cattleya jenmanii is best though of as a dwarf version of the larger unifoliate Cattleyas. Flowers form on new growths a couple of months after they have matured. New growths usually mature by late summer and are ready to bloom by fall.

Flower Size: 5 inch (12.5 cm)

Flower Description: Fragrant. Three to seven flowers are found on top of the 4 inch (10 cm) flower spike. Long-lasting large flowers are pink to lilac-pink, tube-shaped lip flares out to intense lavender purple.

Bloom Season: Summer

Growing Temperature: Warm to Hot. The temperature range in their native habitat is 60 to 85 F.

Additional Information: Cattleya jenmanii is another classic corsage orchid. Its easy culture and free-flowering nature make it a good addition to any Cattleya collection. It needs no special care. Provide a brief winter rest in cold climate areas. Repot Cattleya jenmanii when new roots begin to appear on the newest pseudobulb. Standard orchid potting media are fine. Fortunately, this species is fairly resistant to rots.

There is a semi-alba form (white with colored lip) and awarded alba forms available. Cattleya x gransabanensis is a natural hybrid between Cattleya jenmanii and Cattleya lawreneana.

The species was named after the late Mr. G. S. Jenman , the Government Botanist in Georgetown, British Guiana in the late 19th century.

Synonyms: None