Smithsonian Gardens

Common name: The Sincora Cattleya, The Sincora Laelia

Family: Orchidaceae subfam. Epidendroideae (Orchid)

Synonym: Laelia sincorana

Distribution: Brazil (Bahia)

Habitat: dry, sandstone tablelands; 1200-1500m

Life form: Lithophytic

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

Bloom characteristics: Inflorescence is short with 1-2 (rarely 4) long-lasting pink flowers. Flowers are 3-4" across.

Foliage characteristics: Unifoliate; almost succulent

Pollination syndrome: Bee (Bombus brevivillus)

Description: Many feel that orchids have an air of mystery, and this one certainly does. The Sincora Cattleya (named for the mountain range it come from), was first found by the German botanist Ernst Ule in 1908 – and then disappeared for over 50 years. It was not until a National Geographic expedition went to Brazil for an article on orchids in 1968 that this small, lithophytic orchid reemerged. This very small orchid grows in a harsh, mountainous environment, and may reach only 2-4” in height. Despite the small size of the plant, its flowers can be as large as four inches across, and dwarf the plant with its pink blooms. The contrast of its jagged, rocky home with its brightly colored flowers is a stunning sight.

Comments: Cattleya sincorana