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Cattleya gaskelliana

Scientific Name: Cattleya gaskelliana

Family: Orchidaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Cattleya gaskelliana

Cattleya gaskelliana, also known as Gaskell's Cattleya, is a beautiful orchid species appreciated for its fragrant blooms.

Considerations for Pets and Children

  • This species is commonly found growing on trees and rocks which might make it present in household or botanical gardens.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Cattleya gaskelliana
  • Common Name: Gaskell's Cattleya
  • Family: Orchidaceae
  • Subgenus: Cattleya
  • Section: Cattleya
  • Synonyms:
    • Cattleya labiata var. gaskelliana N.E.Br.
    • Cattleya elegantissima Linden
    • Cattleya gaskelliana (N.E.Br.) B.S.Williams
    • Cattleya gaskelliana (N.E.Br.) Rchb.f.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to Colombia and Venezuela.
  • Grows epiphytically on trees or rocks.
  • Found at altitudes ranging from 700 to 1100 meters (coastal mountain ranges) or 2300 to 3500 feet.

Morphology and Growth

  • Among the largest and most robust-growing of the Cattleya species.
  • Flowers are typically dark lavender with yellow markings.
  • Flowers can reach up to 18cm in size with broad petals and lip.
  • Typically produces an erect spike of 2 to 5 flowers.

Quirky Facts

  • The plant was named by Sander in honor of Holbrook Gaskell, Esq., a customer described as "a gentleman."
  • Some consider Sander to be the original descriptor of the species.

Flower Characteristics

  • Blooms from spring to summer.
  • Flowers are scented and can be intoxicating.
  • Flowers can be pale amethyst flushed white.
  • Some forms exhibit a blue coloration.
  • The lip of the flower is large with an orange/yellow disk.

Further Resources

  • RHS (Royal Horticultural Society)
  • Electronic Plant Information Centre of Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (ePIC)
  • AGRICOLA (Article database)
  • Encyclopedia of Life