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| Intermediate – A very rewarding species. The main challenge is finding a healthy specimen, as it's rare in cultivation . Once you have it, it thrives with good light and air movement. |
| Brazil (Parent species C. eldorado is endemic to the Amazon region) |
| Lowlands to around 800m (Parent species) |
| Medium; 20-30cm club-shaped pseudobulbs with a single, thick leaf |
| No (Too large; needs excellent air circulation) |
| Usually late autumn to winter (Parent species) |
| 8-12cm flowers; Pure white sepals and petals with a spectacular, frilly, tubular lip in a contrasting yellow, often with subtle purple veining inside the throat. Up to 5 flowers per spike. |
| Yes – A powerful, classic Cattleya scent, often described as sweet, spicy, and citrusy . |
| Intermediate to Warm . Summer: 25-30°C day / 18-22°C night. Winter: 22-26°C day / 15-18°C night. |
| Water thoroughly when the medium is nearly dry. Roots need to dry quickly after watering. Reduce frequency in winter after growths mature. |
| 60-80% . Essential for healthy root growth. Use a humidity tray or room humidifier. |
| Bright, filtered light (2,500 - 4,000 lux / 60-70% shade) . Leaves should be a light, apple-green colour. Dark green leaves indicate insufficient light for blooming. |
| Extra coarse, fast-draining mix. Large-grade fir bark, perlite, and charcoal. Must ensure roots have excellent aeration. |
| Weekly, weakly. Use a balanced fertiliser (e.g., 20-20-20) at 1/4 strength during the active growing season (spring and summer). Flush the pot monthly with plain water to prevent salt build-up. Reduce feeding in winter. |
| 1. Rarity: The species C. eldorado is considered rare and highly collectable, especially the alba form . A sibling cross offers an opportunity to own this exceptional lineage.
2. Root Sensitivity: Like many Cattleyas, it dislikes root disturbance. Pot firmly and repot only every 2-3 years, when the mix breaks down.
3. Flowers: The lip colour and size can be variable in sibling crosses, adding to the excitement of the first bloom . |
| 🏆 Trophy (Rare species parentage, highly sought-after by collectors) |
