Source: Wikimedia Commons
Cattleya Intermedia
IntermediateCattleya intermedia
A Brazilian Cattleya species with many color forms including coerulea and aquinii.
About
Cattleya intermedia is an epiphytic orchid native to rocky outcrops and trees in southern Brazil (São Paulo to Rio Grande do Sul). Plants grow 20–40 cm with two-leafed pseudobulbs, bearing two to six flowers per stem, each 8–13 cm across, in white to pale pink and lavender with pink to purple lip markings. Flowering occurs in spring (April–June in Japan). The species is celebrated for its exceptional color variety, including the aquinii form (petals splashed with color), coerulea (bluish), alba (pure white), and others, making it highly sought by collectors.
Lifespan of the Cattleya Intermedia
The Cattleya Intermedia lives 10+ years.
Size of the Cattleya Intermedia
The Cattleya Intermedia grows to 20-40cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Cattleya Intermedia
The ideal temperature for the Cattleya Intermedia is 12〜30℃.
Preferred conditions: 12–30°C, bright indirect light, free-draining bark or pumice, and a dry winter rest to promote flowering.
Basic Info
Origin
southern Brazil, São Paulo to Rio Grande do Sul
Lifespan
10+ years
Size
20-40cm
Temperature
12〜30℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Bright indirect light is the rule. Avoid direct sun, but keep it in a spot bright enough that light is never lacking.
Watering
Water once the medium has dried. Reducing water in winter, its dry season, encourages flower bud formation.
Temperature & Overwintering
It prefers a relatively cool 12-30°C. Bring it indoors in winter and pair the cooler conditions with drier care.
Soil & Repotting
Potting in bark and pumice is the norm. Keep drainage good so the roots never stay soggy.
Fertilizer
Feed with diluted liquid fertilizer while new growth is developing. Stop feeding and let it rest while water is withheld in winter.
Cattleya Intermedia FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Cattleya Intermedia?
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 Intermedia?
The ideal temperature for Cattleya Intermedia is 12〜30℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Cattleya Intermedia?
The average lifespan of Cattleya Intermedia is 10+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Cattleya Intermedia get?
The mature size of Cattleya Intermedia is 20-40cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QWhat is the typical price for Cattleya Intermedia?
The price of Cattleya Intermedia varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
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: Cattleya intermedia Graham ex Hook.
Synonyms: Bletia lindleyana, Cattleya intermedia f. parthenia, Cattleya intermedia f. amethystina, Cattleya loddigesii var. amethystina, Cattleya intermedia var. punctatissima, Epidendrum intermedium, Cattleya aquinii, Cattleya amethystina
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
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