Source: Wikimedia Commons
Cattleya Labiata
IntermediateCattleya labiata
The first Cattleya species discovered, with a large lip and vibrant autumn blooms.
About
Cattleya labiata, the autumn cattleya, is a large epiphytic orchid native to the coastal mountain ranges of northeastern Brazil. Plants grow 30–50 cm with single-leafed pseudobulbs. The flowers, up to 18 cm across, display pale to deep rose petals and a large, heavily fringed lip in deep purple-crimson; two to four are borne per pseudobulb in autumn (September–November). Introduced to Britain in 1818 and among the first Cattleya species described, it became a cornerstone of modern Cattleya hybridization. Bark is the preferred growing medium.
Lifespan of the Cattleya Labiata
The Cattleya Labiata lives 10+ years.
Size of the Cattleya Labiata
The Cattleya Labiata grows to 30-50cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Cattleya Labiata
The ideal temperature for the Cattleya Labiata is 13〜28℃.
Cultivation requires bright indirect light, temperatures above 15°C, and a dry rest in summer–autumn.
Basic Info
Origin
northeastern Brazil, coastal mountain ranges
Lifespan
10+ years
Size
30-50cm
Temperature
13〜28℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
It needs bright indirect light. Avoid direct sun, but place it somewhere bright such as a window so light is never lacking.
Watering
Water once the medium has dried. Reducing water from summer to autumn, its dry season, encourages flower bud formation.
Temperature & Overwintering
The ideal range is 13-28°C. Keep it in a warm room over winter and protect it from cold.
Soil & Repotting
Bark potting suits it. Keep drainage good and repot when new growth is just starting.
Fertilizer
Feed with diluted liquid fertilizer while new growth is developing. Ease off feeding while water is reduced in summer and autumn.
Cattleya Labiata FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Cattleya Labiata?
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 Labiata?
The ideal temperature for Cattleya Labiata is 13〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Cattleya Labiata?
The average lifespan of Cattleya Labiata is 10+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Cattleya Labiata get?
The mature size of Cattleya Labiata is 30-50cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QWhat is the typical price for Cattleya Labiata?
The price of Cattleya Labiata 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 labiata Lindl.
Synonyms: Cattleya labiata var. atropurpurea, Cattleya massangeana, Cattleya labiata var. pallida, Cattleya labiata var. purpureostriata, Cattleya labiata var. albo-oculata, Cattleya labiata var. wilsoniana, Cattleya leeana, Cattleya labiata var. rochellensis
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.