Crimson cattleya - Cattleya labiata (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Crimson cattleya

Also known as: Autumn cattleya

Crimson cattleya (Cattleya labiata) is a flowering plant native to Brazil. Crimson cattleya can grow up in other trees, on rocks, or in soil. Crimson cattleya is pollinated by insects and attracts bees. An alternative name for the crimson cattleya is the ruby-lipped cattleya.

Scientific classification

Species

Crimson cattleya (Cattleya labiata)

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Fall

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

25 cm

Plant Height

30 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

13 cm to 18 cm

Flower Size

Pink, Yellow, Purple, White, Red, Lavender, Gold

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Crimson cattleya

Distribution of Crimson cattleya

Distribution Map

Crimson cattleya is native to Brazil, where it was discovered in 1818. It has not been naturalized in any other country. It is an epiphyte, growing in the top layers of trees where it can get sunlight and nutrients. It is also sometimes found growing on rocks.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Trees where light is plentiful, rock with very little soil

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

A beautiful autumn-flowering orchid, crimson cattleya has been gladly cultivated among orchid enthusiasts for nearly 200 years. The delicate, showy blooms are the delight of many hobbyists—crimson cattleya is a species that is not highly commercial. It is most commonly grown in greenhouses because of its high humidity and light requirements, but in warm climates it can beautify outdoor areas as well.

Symbolism

Resilience and endurance

Interesting Facts

This Brazilian species is very valued in Britain. The legend of how they came to London is that botanist William Cattley received a shipment of ferns wherein the crimson cattleya was used as packing material to protect the ferns. The crimson cattleya was so enchanting to Cattley that he rescued it and began to cultivate it in his greenhouses.

Name Story

Crimson cattleya: Cattleya is a genus of orchids that are from Costa Rica south to Argentina. During the wet season, new leaves grow out from the plant rapidly, producing a large-flowered inflorescence. Since most of the flowers are in crimson red, it is called crimson cattleya.

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Quickly Identify Crimson cattleya

Large flowers (4-6 inches, 10-15 cm) with vivid pink to purple ruffled lips and yellow throats.

Thick, waxy, leathery leaves (8-12 inches, 20-30 cm) with prominent parallel venation.

Lilac-colored blossoms on smaller plants; White flowers on larger individuals.

Fleshy rhizomes aiding epiphytic lifestyle, clasping onto tree branches.

Blooms emit enticing fragrance, demanding careful lighting and high humidity in warm climates.

Identify plants with a snap

Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Crimson cattleya

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Orchid Potting Mix

Soil Type

Water: Crimson cattleya flourishes in high humidity, favoring consistent moisture without waterlogging. It requires weekly watering and moderate drought tolerance. Regular misting indoors replicates its natural environment, promoting healthy foliage and vibrant blooms.

Fertilize: Fertilize crimson cattleya bi-weekly with high phosphorus fertilizer during growth, reducing to monthly in dormancy. Use 1/4 strength, water-soluble fertilizer, applying thoroughly to prevent root burn. Adjust frequency and strength according to seasonal changes for optimal vigor and blooming. Follow safety precautions and product guidelines.

Pruning: Crimson cattleya requires regular maintenance, including pruning in early spring to late winter during dormancy. Remove dead pseudobulbs and leaves for better airflow and light. Cut faded flower spikes to encourage new growth. Proper pruning promotes health, bloom production, and longevity of the plant.

Propagation: Crimson cattleya is a valued orchid known for its vibrant, fragrant flowers. Successful propagation requires seed sowing in symbiosis with a specific fungus. Care involves precise regulation of light, temperature, and moisture, alongside maintaining a sterile environment to avoid contamination during seed development.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Images of Crimson cattleya

Distribution of Crimson cattleya

Culture

Quickly Identify Crimson cattleya

Care Guide for Crimson cattleya

PEOPLE ALSO ASK

Common Pests & Diseases