Christmas Orchid

• Common Name: Christmas Orchid
  
• Scientific Name: Cattleya trineae
  
• Family Name: Orchidaceae
  
• Origin: Columbia
• Height: 2 ft
  
• Width: 2 ft
  
• Growth: Slow
  
• Zone: USDA Zones 10 through 12
  
• Light needs: Bright, indirect light
  
• Salt tolerance: Low
  
• Soil/pH/Texture: As an epiphytic plant, it should be grown on tree trunks and branches, or in a bark-based orchid medium.
  
• Moisture: High moisture needs. Humidity should be kept between 60 and 90 percent. Waterings should be regular.
  
• Drought tolerance: Low
  
• Pests/Diseases: Rot may occur if overwatered.
  
• Growing conditions: This orchid is high-maintenance and special attention must be paid to its light and water needs. Light should be bright and indirect, as direct exposure will cause leaf burn. If planted outdoors, the orchid should be placed in an area with dappled shade. This orchid tolerates temperatures between 60- and 90-degrees F and is cold sensitive. Adequate humidity is also needed. If cultivated indoors, adequate humidity levels can be achieved by placing the plant’s container in a shallow dish filled with pebbles and water and misting the plant regularly. Waterings should be done with lukewarm water and the container should be allowed to drain well to prevent rot.
  
• Characteristics: The long, smooth, and leathery leaves grow from pseudobulbs at the base of the plant. The rhizomes are thick and provide support. The large, showy flowers grow in pairs on short spikes. These flowers have pinkish-white petals, and the labellum is yellow, bluish-white, and red.
  
• Propagation: By division of pseudobulbs – wait until there are at least 4 pseudobulbs before dividing.
  
• Facts: This orchid is the national flower of Colombia. This choice was made because the colors of the lip resemble the Colombian flag, and because the plant was named after a Colombian botanist. It is an endangered species due to habitat loss.
  
• Designer considerations: This epiphytic plant adds color and interest to tree trunks and limbs. With proper care, it can also be cultivated indoors in containers and hanging baskets. Pair it with ferns to add a tropical ambience. 
  

Christmas Orchid

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