Name: Cattleya intermedia Graham ex Hook. var. coerulea

Synonyms: Epidendrum intermedium; Cattleya amabilis; Cattleya amethystina; Laelia lindleyana and other taxonomic synonyms

Etymology: The genus name Cattleya honors the English orchid collector and enthusiast William Cattley. The epithet intermedia means “intermediate” or “middle” and refers to the species’ classification. coerulea means “bluish” and describes the corresponding flower color.

First description: The species was described in 1828 by Graham ex Hooker.

Origin / Habitat: Southeastern and southern Brazil to Paraguay. It grows epiphytically or as a geophyte in seasonally dry tropical habitats, often on trees or exposed rocks.

Description & Notes: Compact Cattleya with sturdy pseudobulbs and usually two leaves. The coerulea form displays bluish-violet hues; the plant offered here is classified as semi-alba. We grow it in very bright conditions, with good air circulation and thorough watering during growth; the potting medium may dry out between waterings. We keep it at around 15–30 °C and somewhat drier in winter.