Cattleya amethystoglossa

Cattleya amethystoglossa, also known as the "amethyst-lipped Cattleya flower," is a bifoliate orchid species native to Brazil, specifically the states of Bahia and possibly Espirito Santo. It grows in close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, typically near sea level. This epiphytic orchid can be found on palm tree trunks, rocks, and large tree branches in the high canopy of evergreen trees. It thrives in bright, airy, and humid environments. The plant itself is tall, with pseudobulbs that can reach up to 3 feet in height. Each pseudobulb has two, occasionally three, leathery green leaves at the top. Belonging to the Bifoliate division of Cattleyas, C. amethystoglossa produces large, fragrant flowers that measure approximately 4 inches in diameter. These flowers grow on terminal stems at the apex of the pseudobulb, with each stem yielding between ten and 30 blooms. The petals and sepals range from light lavender to pale rose, adorned with mauve or magenta spotting. The lip, which partially wraps around the column, is a vibrant magenta color. The throat of the flower varies from white to pale yellow or gold. Blooming occurs from late fall to early spring. C. amethystoglossa thrives in intermediate to warm growing conditions. Unfortunately, its native range has significantly diminished due to habitat destruction, logging, and agriculture. Despite this, the species has been found in various forms, including coerulea and alba, in the wild. In summary, Cattleya amethystoglossa is an evergreen, epiphytic orchid with elongated, upright stems. It boasts showy, fragrant flowers held on short terminal stems, with white or pale pink petals and sepals covered in dark pink spots. The lip of the flower is magenta pink. This orchid is native to Brazil's Bahia and possibly Espirito Santo states, growing near sea level on palm tree trunks, rocks, and large tree branches in bright, humid environments.