The Cattleya dowiana var. aurea is one of the most legendary botanical varieties within the Cattleya genus. This rare and breathtakingly beautiful orchid from Colombia is known for its golden yellow flowers and rich, regal appearance. A plant for the connoisseur seeking the cream of the crop within the classic Cattleya type.
This variety of Cattleya dowiana is native to the western mountainous regions of Colombia, where it grows in moist cloud forests between 1,000 and 1,500 meters altitude. Unlike the Costa Rican form, it has var. aurea much more intense colors and sharper markings in the lip. The plant was praised in botanical circles as early as the 19th century and has been a favorite among collectors ever since.
The flowers of Cattleya dowiana var. aurea are large and showy, reaching up to 18 centimeters in diameter. The sepals and petals are glossy golden yellow, often with a subtle red edge glow in more mature flowers. The brightly contrasting lip shows a velvety, dark purple hue with a bright yellow throat, often with finely drawn red veins.
The inflorescence usually appears in late summer and consists of one to five flowers per inflorescence stalk. The plant has stout, egg-shaped pseudobulbs with narrow, leathery leaves.
Plenty of bright, indirect light is essential. A spot in front of an east or west window is ideal. Too little light will prevent flowering.
Heat-loving. Between 22 and 28 C during the day, not below 16 C at night. Ensure sufficient air movement at higher temperatures.
Use a very airy, fast-draining substrate based on medium bark with some coarse charcoal or sphagnum moss added if necessary.
A humidity of 60-80% is recommended, with regular misting if the air is dry. A humidifier or water tank nearby may help.
Feed weekly during the growing season with a balanced orchid fertilizer diluted to one-quarter the recommended strength. In the dormant period, less frequently.
Allow the substrate to dry partially between waterings. Preferably use demineralized water or rainwater. Tap water can cause damage to this orchid due to the imbalance of minerals in the water, among other things.
Flowering usually occurs in late summer or early fall, after a short dry period. Provide slightly cooler nights and less water to encourage flowering.
Only logged in customers who have purchased this product may leave a review.
