intermediatecommonCattleya
Ruby-Lipped Cattleya
Cattleya labiata
The queen of orchids — fragrant ruffled blooms in vivid magenta.
Bloomspurplemagenta
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Water heavily then let dry between waterings
Lighthigh
Bright filtered light, some morning sun
Foodhigh
Feed weekly weakly during growth season
Temp
60-85°F
Humidity
50-70%
Origin
Brazil
Special care:Needs a dry winter rest with cool nights to trigger blooming.
About Ruby-Lipped Cattleya
Researching Ruby-Lipped Cattleya…
Care guide
Potting medium
Chunky bark + charcoal in a clay pot; excellent drainage is non-negotiable.
Repotting
Every 2 years, only when new growth roots are just emerging (1/2 inch long).
Bloom season
Varies by species — most bloom once per year, either spring or autumn.
Bloom longevity
Spectacular but brief: 1–3 weeks per flower.
Growth habit
Sympodial — produces pseudobulbs along a creeping rhizome.
Propagation
Division at repotting; keep at least 3 mature pseudobulbs per division.
Pests & prevention
Scale, spider mites in dry air. Snails love new sheaths.
Signs of trouble
- ●Soft pseudobulb → rot, often from stagnant medium
- ●Reddish leaves → too much direct sun (lift slightly above ideal is normal)
- ●Sheath turns brown before opening → low humidity during bud development
Grower's tips
- ★Allow the medium to dry almost completely between waterings.
- ★Bright light (leaves should feel warm but not hot) yields the best blooms.
