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Among the Brazilian Cattleyas, this compact growing bifoliate Cattleya species is closely related to Cattleya walkeriana and was once considered a botanical variety of the latter. The two species are similar in growth habit and manner of flowering, each producing a floral peduncle (bloomspike) from the rhizome between pseudobulbs rather than blooming from the pseudobulbs themselves. Cattleya nobilior—”the nobler Cattleya”—is typically the stockier grower, its pseudobulbs more bulbous and stout. Its flowers, which bloom most often in pairs or clusters of three, bear a distinctly flat to recurved lip with vibrant pink/purple veining set aglow.

Grown from seed, so flower characteristics may vary from plant to plant.

Plants Available: The plant available is the plant pictured—an established driftwood mount with show-quality flowers.

Orchid Care: Grow in bright light and high humidity with strong air circulation. Mounting or basket culture are recommended. Try driftwood, slab, or tree fern; teak or cedar baskets; or net plastic baskets with chopped cork or tree fern fiber. Water generously during spring and summer during active growth, but allow plant to dry out between waterings. Reduce water somewhat in the fall and further still throughout the winter months (still maintaining moderate to high humidity) so as mimic environmental conditions in C. nobilior’s natural habitat.

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