Source: Wikimedia Commons
Cattleya
IntermediateKnown as the Queen of Orchids, prized for large fragrant blooms and stunning colors.
About
Cattleya is a genus of orchids from Costa Rica south to Argentina. The genus is abbreviated C in trade journals.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Lifespan of the Cattleya
The Cattleya lives 10+ years.
Size of the Cattleya
The Cattleya grows to 20-50cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Cattleya
The ideal temperature for the Cattleya is 15〜28℃.
Basic Info
Origin
Costa Rica south to Argentina, tropical and subtropical Americas
Lifespan
10+ years
Size
20-50cm
Temperature
15〜28℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
It needs bright indirect light. Direct sun causes leaf scorch, so soften the light to about sheer-curtain level.
Watering
Water thoroughly once the medium has dried. In the growing season (spring to autumn) water well to build up the bulbs.
Temperature & Overwintering
The ideal range is 15-28°C. In winter, keep it indoors where a minimum of 15°C can be maintained.
Soil & Repotting
Pot in bark, pumice or sphagnum moss for good drainage. Repot when new growth is just starting.
Fertilizer
Feed well during the growing season (spring to autumn). Flower buds appear after the bulbs mature, so focus on building the plant.
Cattleya FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Cattleya?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Cattleya?
The ideal temperature for Cattleya is 15〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Cattleya?
The average lifespan of Cattleya is 10+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Cattleya get?
The mature size of Cattleya is 20-50cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QWhat is the typical price for Cattleya?
The price of Cattleya varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
Growing Specifications
- USDA Zone
- 10–12
Sources: Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder: Cattleya (group) (Zone 10 to 12)
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Lindl.
Synonyms: Lophoglotis, Brasilaelia, Hoffmannseggella, Schluckebieria, × Sophrocattleya, × Hadrodungsia, × Hadrocattleya, × Microcattleya
Authority databases: GBIF · POWO · RHS orchid hybrid registration (International Orchid Register) · AOS (American Orchid Society)
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
The family Orchidaceae is listed entirely in CITES Appendix II (except for the genera Paphiopedilum and Phragmipedium and certain species, which are in Appendix I). Cultivars and hybrids are subject to family-level regulation; however, artificially propagated specimens may benefit from simplified trading procedures under the Appendices.
Sources: CITES Appendices (Orchidaceae spp. = Appendix II) / CITES Appendix I Orchid Checklist (Kew/UNEP-WCMC 2019)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
Related Articles
Complete Guide to Growing Cattleyas | Complete Management to Bloom the Queen of Orchids
A complete guide to growing Cattleyas, the queen of orchids. Learn seasonal watering and fertilizing schedules, light requirements and temperature differential management for blooming, sheath handling, pseudobulb health management, and timing for division.
How to Grow Cattleya and Tips for Blooming | Light, Temperature, and Watering Management
Guide to growing Cattleya, the "Queen of Orchids." Summarizes key management points for blooming, including light intensity, temperature, watering, and repotting.
Airflow Management Guide for Bulbless Orchids | Understanding the Physiology of Non-Water-Storing Epiphytic Orchids and Their Differences from Dendrobium kingianum
This guide explains the physiology of bulbless epiphytic orchids and key points for airflow management, while comparing water management differences with pseudobulbed Dendrobium kingianum.
Orchid Division and Bulb Propagation to New Plant Development | Complete Roadmap from Seedling to Flowering Stock
Orchid division is an important propagation method for bulb-bearing orchids such as Cymbidiums and Dendrobiums. This article provides a detailed explanation of the complete process from division to bulb propagation and new plant development. It covers the full range of successful techniques, from selecting the optimal timing, separating bulbs, planting new plants with initial care management, to the timeline through flowering.
Can't find the plant you're looking for?
Post your wishes for free and growers with matching plants will contact you with introductions.