Cattleya intermedia

Cattleya intermedia is a species of orchid that is native to Brazil, where it grows in the humid forests of the Atlantic coast. The plant was named after William Cattley, an English horticulturist who helped popularize the cultivation of orchids in Europe during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Cattleya intermedia is prized for its large, fragrant flowers, which bloom in a range of colors from pale pink to deep purple. This species is highly sought after by collectors of rare and exotic plants, and it has been widely cultivated for over a century.

Cattleya intermedia (Laguna, SC, 88790-000, Brasil) - Photo credit: JG
Cattleya intermedia (Laguna, SC, 88790-000, Brasil) - Photo credit: JG
Cattleya intermedia (Laguna, SC, 88790-000, Brasil) - Photo credit: JG
Cattleya intermedia (Laguna, SC, 88790-000, Brasil) - Photo credit: JG
Cattleya intermedia (Aldeia Santuário das Aves - Tavares - RS, Brasil) - Photo credit: Fernando Sessegolo
Cattleya intermedia (Aldeia Santuário das Aves - Tavares - RS, Brasil) - Photo credit: Fernando Sessegolo
Cattleya intermedia (Carvoeira, Florianópolis - State of Santa Catarina, Brazil) - Photo credit: Kahio Tiberio Mazon
Cattleya intermedia (Bolaxa, Rio Grande - RS, Brasil) - Photo credit: vinicius_s_domingues

Morphology and Characteristics

Cattleya intermedia is a large, epiphytic orchid that can grow up to 50 cm in height. It has long, narrow leaves that range from dark green to gray-green in color. The flowers of Cattleya intermedia are the most distinctive feature of this species and are highly prized for their beauty and fragrance.

The flowers of Cattleya intermedia are large and showy, measuring up to 18 cm across. They come in a range of colors, including shades of purple, pink, and white. The petals and sepals are broad and rounded, while the lip is frilly and often brightly colored. The flowers have a sweet, citrus-like fragrance that is most pronounced in the early morning or late afternoon.

Cattleya intermedia blooms once a year, usually in the late spring or early summer. The plant requires a period of rest after flowering and will not produce new growth until the following year.

Taxonomy and Classification

Cattleya intermedia belongs to the Orchidaceae family, which is one of the largest families of flowering plants with over 28,000 species. Within this family, Cattleya intermedia is part of the Cattleya genus, which includes around 50 different species of orchids. Cattleya intermedia was first described by John Lindley in 1837.

The taxonomy of Cattleya intermedia has undergone several revisions over the years, and there are now two recognized subspecies: Cattleya intermedia subsp. intermedia and Cattleya intermedia subsp. orlata.

Cattleya intermedia is often confused with other closely related species, including Cattleya loddigesii, Cattleya aclandiae, and Cattleya warscewiczii. These species share a similar appearance and are often hybridized to create new cultivars.

Distribution and Habitat

Cattleya intermedia is native to Brazil, where it can be found growing in the humid forests along the Atlantic coast. It is particularly abundant in the southeastern regions of Brazil, where it thrives in the warm, wet conditions found in this area.

In addition to its native range, Cattleya intermedia has been introduced to other parts of the world for cultivation and ornamental purposes. It is commonly grown in greenhouses and as a potted plant, and can be found in collections and gardens all over the world.

While Cattleya intermedia is not considered to be a threatened species, its natural habitat is under threat due to deforestation and other forms of habitat destruction. Efforts are underway to conserve the forests where this species grows, in order to preserve the biodiversity of this important ecosystem.

Cultivation and Care

Cattleya intermedia is a popular orchid species that is commonly grown in greenhouses and as a potted plant. It requires warm, humid conditions to thrive, making it well-suited for indoor cultivation in most regions.

When growing Cattleya intermedia, it is important to provide it with bright, indirect light and keep it in a temperature range between 18-30°C (65-85°F). The plant prefers a well-draining potting mix, such as a combination of bark and sphagnum moss. Watering should be done regularly, but the plant should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.

Cattleya intermedia can be propagated through division or by taking stem cuttings from new growth. Pest and disease problems can be kept under control by maintaining a clean growing environment and using appropriate fungicides and insecticides as needed. Common pests include spider mites and mealybugs.

Overall, with proper care and attention, Cattleya intermedia can be a rewarding and relatively easy plant to grow.

Economic and Ecological Importance

Cattleya intermedia is an important species for both economic and ecological reasons.

From an economic standpoint, Cattleya intermedia has long been prized for its beauty and fragrance, making it a popular choice for cut flowers, ornamental plants, and hybridization. It is widely cultivated in greenhouses and as a potted plant, and is often used in floral arrangements due to its large, showy flowers and pleasant scent.

In addition to its commercial value, Cattleya intermedia plays an important role in the ecology of its native habitat. As an epiphytic plant, it provides habitat and shelter for a wide variety of insects and other small organisms. In addition, it contributes to the biodiversity of the Atlantic forest ecosystem, which is considered to be one of the most biologically diverse regions on the planet.

Efforts are currently underway to conserve the biodiversity of the Atlantic forest, including the preservation of Cattleya intermedia and other important plant species. By protecting these ecosystems, we can ensure that future generations will be able to appreciate the natural beauty and ecological significance of this important region.