Susan Baker

About Susan Baker

Posts by Susan Baker:

Interesting facts about Colombian orchids

Interesting facts about Colombian orchids

0 ,

Did you know that Columbia is home to more than 4,000 different orchid species, and there are 1,543 endemic species that reside in this country? However, there is a reason why so many orchids are found here. In fact, this entire region is surrounded by mountain ranges, like the Andean Cordillera. Such a chain of mountains features a diverse set of environments, ranging from dry and wet forests to Paramos and cloud forests.

The majority of orchids that reside here are epiphytes, or in other words, plants that live on the bark of trees and depend on debris and moisture stored at branches.

Now, let’s discover some interesting facts about these stunning plants!

Cattleya – the world-famous name

Cattleya isn’t only the type of orchid but the flower for which these plants are known across the world. You can find a couple of species in Columba, and the majority of them are endemic. The Cattleya trianae is most widespread and commonly found throughout the country.

Cattleya Trianae Orchid
Cattleya Trianae Orchid

Cattleya trianae

Since we are on the subject of this orchid, you should know that Cattleya trianae is named after José Jerónimo Triana, a Columbian naturalist. On top of that, Emilio Robledo selected Cattleya trianae as a national symbol.

Orchid features

Cattleya orchid Colombia comes in different sizes, textures, shapes, and colors and is scattered across the country. However, the most significant number of Columbian orchids is found in the Andes, between 1,000 and 3,000 meters.

Cataleya colombiana, the most popular flower

In Columbia, orchids stand out among thousands of flowers, including Michaelmas daisies, lilies, chrysanthemums, carnations, and roses.

Cattleya Colombian flower

The flowers are commonly found in winter and early spring. After the flowering finishes in the early spring, the new growth starts and continues until August. However, the new flower buds will not appear until November.

A new type discovered

Encyclia Parketri is a new type discovered in 2015 in the area of La Cumbre and Restrepo in Valle del Causa. The researchers initially started studying 421,000 hectares of flora in the region of Valle del Causa, and with the help of the Alexander von Humboldt Institute, this research was extended to other departments.

Long-lasting

Orchids can survive up to 100 years, and the texture of their leaves, size, and shape depends on their habitat. Usually, plants that live in dry climates have thicker leaves, covered with wax, while orchids living in humid and warm climates possess elongated and thin leaves. On the other hand, you can find species without leaves at all.

Coryanthes Macrantha
Coryanthes Macrantha

The most peculiar Columbian orchids

Coryanthes macrantha or also known as a huge one is a species that lives in the Columbian lowland. This type can produce massive flowers, ranging up to 5 inches in diameter. It’s important to mention that this orchid grows in a huge ant-garden nest, and it’s this association with ants that help Coryanthes macrantha grow such massive flowers. One flower can reach up to 100g.

The next on our list is the Christmas orchid which is critically endangered due to deforestation. The Pacific lowland wet forests are home to Cycnoches barthiorum, another endemic species known as the swan orchid.

Did you know that most orchids have bisexual flowers, which means that they have female and male reproductive organs placed in one flower? However, when it comes to swan orchids, they can produce female and male flowers, which aren’t the same.

Last but not least, the Dracula orchid is another common species found in Columbia. In fact, there are approximately 42 Dracula orchid types. They have quite strange and bizarre flowers.

Most Beautiful Flowers In The World

Most Beautiful Flowers In The World

0 , ,

Can you name the ugliest flower in the world? We know this question might sound strange, but can we divide flowers into ugly and beautiful? We are sure that each and every flower has something stunning to offer, regardless of its origin, shape, and color.

However, this leads us to the next question!

Which is the most beautiful flower in the world?

Well, we couldn’t possibly name only one? There are hundreds of thousands of flowers worldwide, which are beautiful in their own way. However, some flowers have unique features that outrank others, and we will closely examine them in this article.

Cherry Blossom
Cherry Blossom Trees

Cherry blossom

Do we really need an explanation for this one? If you have ever been to the States, then you are familiar with their National Cherry Blossom Festival held in Washington DC. In fact, this is one of the most spectacular spring festivals, and it’s organized to commemorate a particular day.

In 1912, Yukio Ozaki, a Tokyo Mayor, gifted Japanese cherry trees to the United States to strengthen their relations. Cherries symbolize the arrival of the spring and are very important to Japanese culture. For them, the cherry blossom represents a new beginning and beauty of life.

Bird of paradise

While this name might seem a bit strange, the bird of paradise is an exotic plant found in South Africa. When in full bloom, its flowers look like bird of paradise in flight. That’s how it got its name. This exotic flower is also called a crave flower.

It symbolizes unique beauty and paradise itself. The mature plant will bloom from May to September. Bird of paradise has long, green leaves, as well. It behaves well outside and requires a lot of sunshine. Once the flowers fade away, make sure to cut down the stem to encourage the next wave of blooming.

Bleeding Heart Flower
Bleeding Heart Flower

Bleeding heart

You can probably guess what bleeding heart represents – love, right? However, can you imagine this plant in your garden, decorating your outdoor space with pink-white, heart-shape-colored flowers? Doesn’t it look wonderful? Because this plant has such amazing flowers, it can capture anyone’s attention.

The bleeding heart prefers a cool and moist climate and blooms mainly in spring. Each arching stem can support up to 20 heart-shaped flowers. You can find this flower not only in pink, but white, yellow, and red color. On top of that, when droplets of water appear at the tip of the flower, they genuinely look like bleeding hearts.

Dahlia

Dahlia has always taken a special place among flower lovers. The reason lies in its color and size, and you can find around 42 dahlia species in the world. Depending on the type, its flowers can range between two and 20 inches in size. Additionally, you can find this flower in almost any color except blue.

This plant originates from Mexico; however, it’s widely cultivated today. It produces some of the most beautiful flowers that bloom from mid-summer to the first frost. If you want to encourage blooming, make sure to cut the stem right after the first flowers have faded away.

Lotus

What would be your reaction if you spotted a lotus in a murky pond? We are sure you would be amazed by its beauty. Regardless of how dirty the pond is, you can hardly ignore the stunning lotus flower. On the other hand, this plant symbolizes grace, divinity, harmony, and purity in the Buddhist religion.

Many would say that Lotus is the most beautiful aquatic flower, and unfortunately, it can survive in harsh and cold climates. Lotus requires a lot of sunshine to grow. It is photosensitive, which means it opens in the morning and closes during the night. Lotus is also one of the biggest flowers out there since it can grow up to 10 inches in diameter.

Tulips
Tulips

Tulips

Tulips are great flowers to have in your garden, and you can grow them in any part of the world. Which means they aren’t too sensitive to cold temperatures. There are more than 3,000 types of tulips, and they are the national symbol of the Netherlands.

Tulips open each spring, and they come in a variety of colors, except pure blue. Typically, one stem carries one flower. Its life cycle is very short, usually up to seven days.

Orchid

Orchids are one of the most beautiful flowers in the world. So far, there are approximately 25,000 known species of orchids, which makes them one of the largest flowering families on the planet.

You can find small or big orchids, long-living or short-living ones. Apart from these features, orchids come in their unique statues and vibrant colors. Some types of orchids resemble other plants or animals. For instance, we have a bumblebee orchid, which looks identically like this insect.

Apart from their distinctive shape, vibrant and stunning colors play a significant role in the amazing look of orchids.

How to Care for Cattleya Aurea

How to Care for Cattleya Aurea?

0

When back in 1881, the Belgian orchid grower announced that his collector in Colombia had discovered a new species of Cattleya orchid, he started a debate that will last to this day. In fact, he named this new species Cattleya Aurea and explained in detail how it’s different from Cattleya Dowiana, the other similar type.

But whatever the truth may be, if you ever get in possession of one of these beauties, you need to know how to take care of them properly? Orchids are very sensitive flowers and require extra attention. And while we can find different types of Cattleya orchids, they somehow demand similar growing conditions.

But, how do you know what to look for? Well, don’t worry, here are a couple of tips you will find helpful.

Cattleya Dowiana
Cattleya Dowiana

Ensure enough light

The light needed for Cattleya Aurea depends on geographical location, time of the day, the season, and weather. In other words, these types of orchids love a good amount of light, approximately 50% of full daylight.

If your plant is exposed to direct sunlight, you should shade it to avoid overheating and damage to the leaves. Usually, owners keep their orchids on a windowsill to ensure enough light; however, if the sun is shining directly on your plant, make sure to shade it from midday to late afternoon.

Temperature

It’s a common fact that orchids love in humid and hot rainforests. However, they can also survive in high altitudes, where the air is moist and cold. During the night and morning, the airflow is cooling them, and during the day, the sun isn’t burning them.

So, if you live in a colder climate, the idea is to maintain a high exposure to light while avoiding high temperatures. During the day, a maximum of 80F will be enough for your plant to feel comfortable, and during the night, you need to ensure a minimum of 55F.

Humidity

Like other orchids, the Cattleya Aurea orchid loves a humid environment. Keep in mind that between 40% and 70% is the best humidity level, and this is provided through watering; some even use humidity trays.

Also, be aware of that fact that if you plan to maintain high humidity, the good airflow is crucial. If humidity is too high, it can cause disease development and rot. On the other hand, a low level of humidity can lead to dehydration and the death of your plant.

Watering

If you don’t know how to water your cattleya dowiana aurea plant, you should always ask how much and when. These types of orchids should be saturated when the potting mix is dry, which means once a week should be enough. However, this will depend on the environment.

For instance, if the temperature is high, the potting mix will dry quicker and vice versa. In that case, watering once a week won’t be enough. However, when temperatures are lower, and the weather is dark, less water is required.

But, when you aren’t sure what to do, don’t water. Keep in mind that it’s easier to recover orchids from dryness than from rotting.

Fertilizing

If you aren’t fertilizing your Cattleya Aurea orchids, that’s ok, because they can survive, bloom, and grow a couple of years without fertilizing. But, it’s obvious that with the help of fertilizers, your orchids will grow to be nicer and bigger.

We recommend you fertilize your plant throughout the hot season and avoid this process from October to February when the weather is colder. Also, to prevent salt buildup, make sure to flush the pot regularly with clean water between two feedings.

Cattleya Orchids Facts

Cattleya Orchids Facts, Different Varieties, and How to Grow and Care

0 ,

Corsage Orchid, Cattleya, or the Queen is the most popular type of orchid found in the world. In fact, most people connect the word orchid with Cattleya, which is why this species is more widespread than others.

Cattleya orchid has a stunning appearance and fragrant large colorful flowers. Therefore, this species is a common guest in many homes across the world. But why is this plant so popular? Is it demanding to grow? Should you have one in your home? That, and many more questions will respond in the article down below.

History, name, and the origin

The name cattleya refers to the entire family of cattleya orchids, and it was first discovered by William Cattley, who accidentally brought the framed corsage orchid to England. In 1818, he was importing a lot of tropical plants from Brazil and stumbled upon this beautiful flower.

Later on, in 1821, John Lindley, a plant taxonomist, described this plant in one of his books and named it after William Cattley.

Features of cattleya orchids

Cattleya orchids are notorious for their fragrant and snowy blooms, as well as their different forms and vivid colors. While some types have smaller colors, they are still attractive as large ones. You should keep in mind that cattleya orchids are slow growers, and it will need them approximately seven years to mature when grown from seed.

Blooming Cattleya Orchids
Blooming Cattleya Orchids

Now, let’s go back to their features!

Cattleya flower

The flower can reach the size of eight inches, with colors varying from white to blue, yellow, red, purple, orange, and pink. They bloom once a year, but some hybrids are known to produce flowers twice or three times a year.

Pseudobulbs and Rhizomes

These species are sympodial epiphytes, which means they need a horizontal tree to grow. Additionally, Cattleya orchids have rhizomes, which create new shoots for the plant’s growth and pseudobulbs crucial for the orchid’s development and storage of nutrients.

Leaves

If the plant is healthy, the leaves need to be fleshy and green, while the shape is elliptical with smooth margins.

Different varieties

Currently, there are 46 recognized species and 35 natural hybrids, which come from Central and South America. Therefore, here are a couple of the most popular cattleya orchids.

Cattleya labiata

Also known as Ruby-lipped Cattleya orchid and of the easiest and most reliable orchids to grow. It is commonly found in rainforests in Brazil, and it grows in mountain ranges and trees above 500 meters. This orchid can produce up to five fragrant flowers, approximately seven inches across bloom.

Cattleya intermedia

The next on our list, Cattleya intermedia or intermediate cattleya, is a part of a bifoliate group. It is located in southern and central Brazil, and it grows in coastal parts of Uruguay and Argentina.

This is a small to medium species, and it can produce three to seven flowers, up to five inches across. The flowers range in magenta, lavender, pink, or white color.

Cattleya bicolor

Or in other words, bicolored cattleya was first introduced in 1836. This type of orchid grows in rocks and trees near coastal areas in Brazil. Cattleya bicolor is a medium to large-sized orchid, whose stems grow up to 30 inches high.

It gives up to five flowers that bloom sunningly untill the mid-summer.

Cattleya Hybrids

Cattleya orchids have been hybridized numerous times, resulting in a significant range of hybrids. There are two general types of this plant, intergeneric hybrids, and interspecific hybrids.

Cattleya bicolor
Cattleya bicolor

How to grow cattleya orchids?

Cattleya orchid care is not as complicated as many would seem. Even though this is a delicate plant, it can grow into a stunning orchid with a bit of attention. This popular orchid type needs favorable environmental conditions, well-drained containers, and proper growing media, among other things.

First of all, try to focus on light exposure and where you will place your orchid. While this type likes sunlight, it doesn’t stand direct sunlight unless you want to damage its leaves and flowers.

Next on your list should be the proper temperature. Regardless of where you live, make sure your cattleya orchids have a consistent temperature, between 70-85F during the day and 55-60F during the night.

When it comes to watering, allow your cattleyas to dry thoroughly before you water them. Keep in mind that they don’t like an overly moist environment which can lead to mold and rotting. After all, it’s easier to recover plants from dryness and rotting.

You can use fertilizers if you want, but most people don’t use them initially but wait a couple of years. However, keep in mind that it will help you plant produce big and beautiful flowers.

Last but not least is repotting, which you can do every two to three years, to keep the roots and your orchid healthy. While many owners are afraid of this step, thinking they will damage the plan, there is no need for it. Make sure to follow the instructions, and your orchid will be safe.