Laeliocattleya Frank Shadle
Technical Data Sheet – Laeliocattleya Frank Shadle (In vitro culture, lot of 14 plants minimum)
1. Identification and Origin
Scientific name: Laeliocattleya Frank Shadle (complex hybrid resulting from crosses between Laelia × gouldiana × Cattleya loddigesii).
Origin: Horticultural hybrid created for its spectacular flowers, combining the robustness and beauty of Cattleya and Laelia species.
Natural habitat: Although it is an artificial hybrid, its parent species come from humid and mountainous forests of Central and South America. It therefore requires similar conditions: good ventilation, filtered light, and moderate humidity.
2. Appearance
Size: Variable depending on the parents, generally between 25 and 45 cm in height.
Pseudobulbs: Intermediate shape, often spindle-shaped, pale green to yellowish.
Leaves: Leathery, lanceolate, medium to dark green, 12–25 cm long.
Flowers: In terminal clusters, variable colors (pink, purple, white, violet, sometimes bicolor), often large and fragrant.
Blooming: Spring or early summer, sometimes multiple times a year depending on conditions.
3. Cultivation Conditions
Temperature
Day: 18–25°C.
Night: 12–15°C (day/night drop promotes blooming).
To avoid: <10°C or >30°C.
Humidity
Ideal rate: 50–70%.
Light
Intensity: Bright but indirect light (east/west window or light shading in a greenhouse).
To avoid: Direct sunlight during hot hours.
Watering
In vitro: Keep the medium slightly moist, avoid standing water.
Post-deflasking / Post-transplanting: Moderate watering, allow to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilizer
In vitro: Diluted nutrient solution (1/4 dose) every 2 weeks.
Post-deflasking / Post-transplanting: Orchid fertilizer (1/2 dose) during active growth.
Ventilation
In vitro: Light air circulation to prevent mold.
Acclimation: Gradually increase ventilation after transplanting.
Repotting
Substrate: Fine bark + perlite + charcoal for good drainage.