Habitat and Ecology
Cattleya warscewiczii, also known as the Warscewicz's Cattleya or the former name Cattleya gigas, is a classic pseudobulbous epiphyte native exclusively to Colombia in South America. It is found growing on trees near streams in its native habitat, primarily in wet tropical biomes at elevations typically between 500 and 1,500 metres. It is adapted to periods of intense rainfall followed by necessary drying, thriving in environments with high light and strong air movement.
Description
Often regarded as the "King of the Cattleyas," this large species is famed for having the largest flowers in the genus. The plant itself is vigorous, with thick, cylindrical or cigar-shaped pseudobulbs (up to 40 cm tall) that are topped by a single, large, leathery leaf. The true spectacle is the bloom: the plant produces an erect spike with 3 to 7 massive, fragrant flowers that can span 17.5-27.5 cm (7-11 inches) across. The flowers are typically lavender or deep rose-pink, with a highly ornate and distinguishing feature: the lip (labellum) is intense, velvety dark purple or magenta and features two prominent, contrasting bright yellow "eyes" or blotches in the throat. The flowers are typically held vertically on the spike, enhancing their monumental display.
Cultivation
Cattleya warscewiczii is a warm-growing orchid that requires bright light and a specific growth cycle to bloom successfully in the UK. It needs very bright, diffused light; situate it in a position that receives morning or late afternoon sun, but shield it from strong midday sun to prevent scorching (leaves should be yellowish-green, not dark green). Use a coarse, open, and fast-draining epiphytic mix of orchid bark, charcoal, and perlite. It should be grown in a pot that allows the roots to be slightly restricted. High humidity (60-80%) is necessary, along with excellent air circulation.
Optimal Daytime Temperature: 21-27 C (70-81F)
Optimal Nighttime Temperature: A crucial 6 C drop is essential for flower initiation, ideally 15-18 C (59-64 F).
Water heavily during active growth (spring/summer), but allow the medium to dry almost completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter during its rest period. Fertilize weekly during active growth using a balanced liquid orchid feed.
Unique Features
This orchid is a must-have for the serious collector due to its unrivalled flower size, which makes it the largest-flowered Cattleya species. The sheer grandeur of the vertical bloom spike, displaying multiple massive flowers with the signature yellow 'eye-spots' on the dark purple lip, is a true masterpiece of nature. This vigorous, show-stopping orchid is widely used in hybridization to create modern large-flowered hybrids.
Specifications
Plant Size: Good strong plants, 3 + adult pseudobulbs. Grown in pots.
Plant Family: Orchidaceae
Plant Passport: A Cattleya warscewiczii B 140084 C [input number on your plant label] D GB
