Source: Wikimedia Commons
Cattleya Mossiae
IntermediateCattleya mossiae
Venezuela's national flower, spring-blooming with large frilled lips, known as Mother's Day orchid.
About
Cattleya mossiae, the Easter orchid and national flower of Venezuela, is a large epiphytic species native to seasonally dry-wet deciduous forests on Andean foothills in northern Venezuela at 800–1,600 m. The flowers, up to 20 cm across, feature pale to deep rose petals and an elaborately fringed lip with a yellow throat and deep purple-crimson margins, accompanied by a sweet fragrance; two to five per pseudobulb in spring (April–May). A well-draining bark or pumice mix is recommended.
Lifespan of the Cattleya Mossiae
The Cattleya Mossiae lives 10+ years.
Size of the Cattleya Mossiae
The Cattleya Mossiae grows to 30-50cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Cattleya Mossiae
The ideal temperature for the Cattleya Mossiae is 13〜28℃.
Cultivation requires bright indirect light, temperatures above 15°C, and a dry rest in winter to early spring.
Basic Info
Origin
northern Venezuela, Andean foothills at 800–1600 m elevation
Lifespan
10+ years
Size
30-50cm
Temperature
13〜28℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
It prefers 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. Withholding water from winter until early spring, mimicking the dry season, helps form flower buds.
Temperature & Overwintering
The ideal range is 13-28°C. Keep it in a warm room over winter and protect it from cold.
Soil & Repotting
A well-draining mix of bark and pumice suits it. Repot when new growth is just starting.
Fertilizer
Feed with diluted liquid fertilizer while new growth is developing. Stop feeding while water is withheld from winter to early spring.
Cattleya Mossiae FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Cattleya Mossiae?
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 Mossiae?
The ideal temperature for Cattleya Mossiae is 13〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Cattleya Mossiae?
The average lifespan of Cattleya Mossiae is 10+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Cattleya Mossiae get?
The mature size of Cattleya Mossiae is 30-50cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QWhat is the typical price for Cattleya Mossiae?
The price of Cattleya Mossiae 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 mossiae C.Parker ex Hook.
Synonyms: Cattleya splendidissima, Cattleya mossiae var. aurea-grandiflora, Cattleya carrierei, Cattleya mossiae var. purpurata, Cattleya mossiae var. wageneri, Cattleya mossiae var. aurea-marginata, Cattleya mossiae var. decora, Cattleya mossiae var. rothschildiana
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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