Cattleya gaskelliana
Care, watering, light and tips for Cattleya gaskelliana on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Orchidaceae
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Indirect light
- Temperature: 15–30 °C
About Cattleya gaskelliana
Cattleya gaskelliana is an epiphytic orchid native to Venezuela, renowned for its stunning, large, fragrant flowers that range in shades from lavender to white, often with a darker lip. Its compact size makes it ideal for collectors with limited space or for display in hanging baskets where its blooms can be admired up close. It primarily blooms in spring and early summer, adding a touch of exotic elegance to any bright interior.
Native range
Venezuela, Colombia, and northern Brazil
Care tips
It requires bright, indirect light; avoid direct midday sun exposure to prevent leaf scorch. Water thoroughly when the growing medium is almost dry, ensuring good drainage and preventing waterlogging, especially in winter. Use a coarse, well-aerated substrate such as pine bark or a specific epiphytic orchid mix. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot; it's better to underwater than overwater with this species.
How to save a dying Cattleya gaskelliana
- Warning signs
- Wrinkled leaves, soft pseudobulbs, dry or rotten roots.
- First aid
- Remove old substrate. Inspect roots, cut bad ones. Repot in fresh, airy medium.
- What kills it
- Overwatering causing root rot or underwatering leading to dehydration.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if its rhizomes or some pseudobulbs are firm.