Smithsonian Gardens

Common name: Walker's Cattleya

Family: Orchidaceae subfam. Epidendroideae (Orchid)

Synonym: Cattleya walkeriana var. semi-alba

Distribution: WC to SE Brazil

Habitat: Near streams; 610-2000m

Life form: Epiphytic

Bloom Time (northern hemisphere): October to June; peaks in June

Bloom characteristics: Inflorescence is 1-3" long with 1-3 heavy flowers. Flowers are 3-5" across and can last up to 6 weeks if kept cool and in low light.

Fragrance: Vanilla to cinnamon

Pollination syndrome: Probably bee

Foliage characteristics: Bifoliate

Description: This cattleya is unique in its genus for the way its flowers grow. While almost all other cattleyas have flowers which arise from the top of their bulbus pseudobulbs, this cattleys has flowers which bloom from the base. The flower of C. walkeriana has a lovely form, and a bit of a cult following in its home country of Brazil, as well as Japan. Many social clubs revolve around this single species, with regular shows. There is even an entire book written just on this orchid.