Cattleya deckeri var. coerulea

Introducing the Enigmatic Beauty: Cattleya deckeri var. coerulea

Discover the allure of Cattleya deckeri var. coerulea, a rare and captivating orchid that hails from the lush forests of Venezuela. Uncommon and seldom seen in collections, this blue form of Cattleya deckeri var. coerulea is a true gem among orchid enthusiasts.

Akin to its cousin, Cattleya skinneri, this remarkable orchid blooms in the enchanting fall season, setting it apart from its spring-flowering counterpart. As a compact miniature orchid, Cattleya deckeri var. coerulea boasts short, ribbed or furrowed pseudobulbs adorned with two oblong, fleshy leaves, creating an exquisite display even when not in bloom.

In the springtime, be prepared to witness a splendid cluster of flowers, with multiple delicate blooms per inflorescence. The flower stems, extending approximately 3 inches (7.5 cm), proudly carry between 4 to 8 mesmerizing flowers, each showcasing a unique cerulean hue that is sure to captivate all who behold it.

Native to the tropical regions of Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, and Trinidad and Tobago, Cattleya deckeri var. coerulea thrives as a caespitose, small-sized, hot to warm growing epiphyte, making it well-suited for various growing conditions. Ideally situated in humid forests at elevations of 30 to 800 meters, this orchid will truly flourish when given the right care and attention.

Cultivating Tips:

1. Light: Provide your Cattleya deckeri var. coerulea with bright, filtered light to mimic its natural habitat. Avoid direct sunlight, as it may scorch the leaves.
2. Temperature: This orchid prefers a warm to hot environment. Ensure temperatures are kept between 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C) during the day and slightly cooler at night.
3. Watering: Strike a balance between keeping the growing medium evenly moist and allowing it to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as it may lead to root rot.
4. Humidity: Maintain a humid environment, mimicking the conditions of its tropical home. Using a humidity tray or a room humidifier can help achieve the desired humidity levels.
5. Potting Mix: Opt for a well-draining orchid mix, such as a combination of bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite, to promote healthy root growth.
6. Fertilization: During the active growing season in spring and summer, provide a balanced orchid fertilizer at a diluted strength, approximately every two weeks.

This are T3” in a 3.5” clay pot, about 3 to 4 years to bloom. Grown from Seed! Limited 

The magical allure of Cattleya deckeri var. coerulea is a sight to behold, and its captivating beauty will undoubtedly be a unique addition to any orchid lover's collection. With its alluring blue flowers and intriguing growth habits, this lesser-known Venezuelan treasure is sure to enchant and delight all who cultivate it. Expand your collection with this extraordinary orchid, and be rewarded with the splendor of its stunning fall blooms!