Temp: I Water: M Food: M Light: M-H Notes: Comments:
Inhabitats Mexico and El Salvador, in the low mountain and tropical rain forests between 500 and 5000 feet. It is the most northern-growing species in the Cattleya genus. Natural temperatures range is extremely hot to extremely cold. So the species is very adaptable and easy to grow. Plants can be found growing as lithophytes (exposed rock outcroppings), as well as epiphtyic ( tree branches).
A bifoliate Cattleya, which is a vigorous grower, quickly forming a large specimen plant. It is a late winter to mid spring bloomer , with 2 to 12 fragrant, flowers from the top of the new mature growth. On occassion Some flowers self pollinate, and therefore never open fully.
Flower Size: 1 inch wide (2.5 cm). The flowers of Cattleya aurantiaca form at the top of a 6 1/2 inch (16 cm) stem. Two to eleven flowers top each stem. Some cultivars have flowers that do not open fully. Some flowers self-pollinate prior to opening on individuals from the northernmost parts of the species range.
In mild climates this species does well naturalized in the trees.
