Source: Wikimedia Commons
Orange Guarianthe
IntermediateGuarianthe aurantiaca
A sturdy species from Mexico and Central America bearing clusters of orange flowers about 2.5 cm across. Formerly a Cattleya, it is still often sold as Cattleya aurantiaca.
About
Guarianthe aurantiaca is an epiphytic orchid that used to be placed in Cattleya, so it is still often sold as Cattleya aurantiaca. It ranges widely from Mexico to Costa Rica at 300-1,600 m, growing on exposed rocks and trees in tropical and montane forest, sometimes in places with harsh heat and cold. Its slender, spindle-shaped pseudobulbs each carry two thick leaves with rounded tips. From late winter to spring a stem about 16 cm long bears a cluster of two to eleven bright orange flowers about 2.5 cm across, among the smallest in the genus. Some northern populations self-pollinate, and their flowers do not open fully. Its natural hybrid with G. skinneri is G. x guatemalensis. It is sturdy, and its clusters of small flowers set it apart among Cattleya relatives. In Japan, specialist orchid nurseries sell seedlings and selected plants.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Size of the Orange Guarianthe
The Orange Guarianthe grows to Flowers about 2.5 cm across; flower stem about 16 cm.
Basic Info
Origin
Mexico to Costa Rica (300-1,600 m)
Lifespan
Perennial that can be kept for many years by division (little data on lifespan)
Size
Flowers about 2.5 cm across; flower stem about 16 cm
Temperature
15〜30℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Watering & Fertilizer
Dilute liquid fertilizer in the growing season
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
It grows on sunny rocks in the wild and likes bright light; shade only from midsummer sun.
Watering
Water after the medium dries, and less in winter.
Temperature & Overwintering
Wild plants range from hot lowlands to cool hills, so it adapts fairly widely; bring it indoors in winter.
Soil & Repotting
Pot in a free-draining medium such as bark or mount it; repot as new growth starts.
Fertilizer
Give dilute liquid fertilizer while growing and stop in winter.
Orange Guarianthe FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Orange Guarianthe?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QHow large does Orange Guarianthe get?
The mature size of Orange Guarianthe is Flowers about 2.5 cm across; flower stem about 16 cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Orange Guarianthe?
Orange Guarianthe: watering & fertilizer — Dilute liquid fertilizer in the growing season. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Orange Guarianthe?
The price of Orange Guarianthe varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 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: Guarianthe aurantiaca (Bateman ex Lindl.) Dressler & W.E.Higgins
Synonyms: Amalia aurantiaca (Bateman ex Lindl.) Heynh., Broughtonia aurea Lindl., Cattleya aurantiaca (Bateman ex Lindl.) P.N.Don, Epidendrum aurantiacum Bateman ex Lindl., Epidendrum aureum (Lindl.) Lindl., Laelia aurantiaca (Bateman ex Lindl.) Beer
Authority databases: GBIF · GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
The whole orchid family is listed in CITES Appendix II (checked on Species+). International trade requires permits such as export permits, but no registration is needed to buy, sell or transfer plants within Japan.
Sources: Species+ (CITES) / Ministry of the Environment, Japan: list of Nationally Rare Species
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
Related Articles
Coelogyne Genus Seasonal Care Guide | Withholding Water in the Dry Season and Tips for Regulating the Bloom Cycle
A seasonal guide to Coelogyne, a type of epiphytic orchid, from watering during the growing season to dry-season drought management and tips for regulating the bloom cycle.
Post-Bloom Care: The Annual Cycle from New Growth to Flower Formation
Learn the annual care cycle for orchids from the end of flowering to the next bloom. This guide covers post-flower care including flower stem cutting methods, signs to observe during new shoot development, summer growth period considerations, requirements for flower bud formation, and finishing care from bud emergence through blooming.
A Complete Guide to Enjoying Orchid Exhibitions and Sales Events | Variety Selection and Post-Purchase Care
A guide to enjoying orchid exhibitions and sales events. Covering practical tips on variety selection, how to identify rare species, and post-purchase environmental acclimatization.
Complete Window-Sill Cultivation Guide for Mini Orchids | Techniques for Blooming Fragrant Orchids in Small Spaces and Low-Light Environments
A practical guide to growing miniature orchids on windowsills. Optimize light levels, humidity, and fertilizer management to achieve repeated blooms of fragrant orchids in confined indoor spaces.
Can't find the plant you're looking for?
Post your wishes for free and growers with matching plants will contact you with introductions.