Source: Wikimedia Commons
Cattleya Walkeriana
IntermediateCattleya walkeriana
A compact, fragrant Cattleya species from Brazil with sweet scent and charming blooms.
Overview
Cattleya walkeriana is a compact epiphytic orchid native to the cerrado savanna and rocky hillsides of central Brazil. Plants reach 10–20 cm with small pseudobulbs bearing one or two leathery leaves. The round-petalled flowers, 5–8 cm across, range from bright pink to rose-purple, produced one to two per stem. The species is especially prized for its intensely sweet, vanilla-like fragrance. Flowering occurs mainly December to March. A free-draining bark or pumice medium is recommended. Its compact habit, beautiful rounded blooms, and exceptional fragrance make it one of the most sought-after Cattleya species among collectors.
Lifespan of the Cattleya Walkeriana
The Cattleya Walkeriana lives 10+ years.
Size of the Cattleya Walkeriana
The Cattleya Walkeriana grows to 10-20cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Cattleya Walkeriana
The ideal temperature for the Cattleya Walkeriana is 15〜30℃.
Cultivation requires bright indirect light, a pronounced dry rest in autumn to stimulate flowering, and a minimum temperature of 15°C.
Basic Info
Origin
central Brazil, cerrado and low montane regions
Lifespan
10+ years
Size
10-20cm
Temperature
15〜30℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
It prefers fairly strong indirect light. Avoid direct sun, but give it one of the brighter spots among your Cattleyas.
Watering
Water once the medium has dried. In autumn, withhold water to give it a dry rest, which encourages flower bud formation.
Temperature & Overwintering
The ideal range is 15-30°C. In winter, keep it indoors where a minimum of 15°C can be maintained.
Soil & Repotting
Pot in bark and pumice for good drainage. Being compact, use a smallish pot so the roots do not stay soggy.
Dormancy Care
The dry rest in autumn is the key to flowering. Withhold water to rest it, then resume normal watering once flower buds appear.
Cattleya Walkeriana FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Cattleya Walkeriana?
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 Walkeriana?
The ideal temperature for Cattleya Walkeriana is 15〜30℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Cattleya Walkeriana?
The average lifespan of Cattleya Walkeriana is 10+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Cattleya Walkeriana get?
The mature size of Cattleya Walkeriana is 10-20cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QWhat is the typical price for Cattleya Walkeriana?
The price of Cattleya Walkeriana varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 17, 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 walkeriana Gardner
Synonyms: Epidendrum walkerianum, Cattleya princeps, Cattleya walkeriana subsp. princeps, Cattleya gardneriana, Cattleya walkeriana var. bulbosa, Cattleya walkeriana var. princeps, Cattleya bulbosa
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
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