Unknown · CC BY-SA 2.5
About
Also known as the crimson or ruby-lipped cattleya, *Cattleya labiata* is the type species of the genus and is notable for its adaptation to arid, canopy-dwelling environments. It produces large, showy inflorescences with flowers that are typically white or lavender, featuring a darker spot on the lip.
Field notes
Morphology
The plant is a medium-sized unifoliate Cattleya with a medium-sized rhizome. It has long, tough (coriaceous) leaves, and a pseudobulb under every leaf stores water and nutrients. Flowers are white or lavender, with a darker spot on the lip. Varieties can range from lilac to large white flowers with yellow touches.
Distribution & habitat
Northeastern Brazil, specifically in Pernambuco, Alagoas, Ceará, and Sergipe. It is an epiphyte found growing on trees or directly on rock with little soil.
Ecology
Pollination is performed by insects, usually by a scent-collecting male euglossine bee. The plant produces a capsule containing a very large number of seeds (10,000-20,000).
Cultivation notes
The plant is adapted to arid conditions, requiring a pseudobulb under every leaf to store water and nutritive substances during the short dry season. New leaves grow rapidly during the wet season.
History & etymology
The species was discovered in 1818 by English naturalist William Swainson, leading to intense interest in orchids in Victorian society.
Conservation
Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Habitat
- Altitude
- —
- Altitude Class
- —
- Native To
- Brazil
Cultivation
- Difficulty
- intermediate
Crossed C. Labiata with another species?
Register the cross — if it's not yet documented you'll be the first contributor. If someone already registered it, you'll be redirected to add your photo.