Cattleya amethystoglossa

Cattleya amethystoglossa is an evergreen orchid in the Orchidaceae family. It comes from Brazil, from Pernambuco south to Espírito Santo. Its native climate has a dry season within the tropics. This epiphyte grows on other plants. In cultivation, it suits a house, conservatory, or warm greenhouse. Its main appeal lies in its large, scented, spotted flowers.

The plant forms clumps from a short, creeping rhizome. Upright, cane-like stems called pseudobulbs narrow toward their bases. Their upper halves are broader. Each stem bears two firm, leathery leaves at its tip. The leaves have a broad oval or elliptic shape. They reach about 0.82 feet [0.25 metres] long. Their width reaches about 0.20 feet [0.06 metres]. Cultivated plants reach 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metre] tall. Their spread ranges from 0.3–1.6 feet [0.1–0.5 metres]. They take about five to ten years to mature.

Flowers appear from autumn through early spring. Short flower stems rise from the tips of new, mature growth. Each bloom can span 0.33 feet [0.10 metres]. The petals and sepals are white or pale pink. Dark pink spots mark their surfaces. A magenta-pink lip adds a stronger patch of colour. The flowers bring both scent and colour to indoor displays.

Give this orchid bright light, with shade from hot midday sun. A coarse bark orchid mix should let water drain freely. Perlite and coconut chips can form part of the mix. Keep winter temperatures at or above 15°C. Summer temperatures up to 28°C suit it. Its RHS hardiness rating is H1A, calling for year-round glass protection. Water and feed during active growth, but never leave it standing in water. Mist to support humidity. Reduce water and feed in winter, while keeping the plant bright.

This orchid grows best when its pot is slightly snug. Repot as spring growth starts, when space or worn mix demands it. This may be needed every two to three years. Divide mature plants with at least three older growths per section. No pruning is needed. Watch for red spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. Thrips can harm the flowers. Disease is uncommon, but poor airflow can lead to rot. Clean tools help prevent the spread of viruses.