Thursday, 18 December 2025

Purple Orchid Cattleya

Used to be pink. Today purple. In our garden
Grok: This beautiful orchid is a Cattleya (likely a hybrid variety, as pure species are less common in cultivation). Cattleyas are often called the "queen of orchids" for their large, showy, ruffled blooms.

Key identifying features from your photo:

  • The vibrant magenta-purple petals and sepals with heavily fringed/ruffled edges.
  • The prominent yellow-orange throat (inner part of the lip/labellum) with a contrasting central column.
  • The overall large, flamboyant flower shape typical of Cattleya hybrids.

These are popular in homes and greenhouses, often bred for bold colors like this deep purple-magenta with yellow accents. They thrive in bright indirect light and well-draining orchid bark.