Interested in catasetums... - Orchid Board

peeweelovesbooks · #1 09-02-2010, 10:37 PM

I've been reading up on these and they seem to be really cool. I'm ready for my next orchid challenge...........

So, I come to thee humbly requesting your suggestions as to which one I should purchase for my first plunge into this genus.

I'm willing to spend up to 30.00 for my first one.

Your suggestions are welcome and appreciated!

Call_Me_Bob · #2 09-02-2010, 11:24 PM

i dont really have any to suggest, but i would recommend looking up the AOS culture sheet, and mine really like hanging baskets with moss

Junebug · #3 09-02-2010, 11:25 PM

I added a Catasetum pileatum 'Oro Verde' to my collection last September. Bought it on-line from Odom's Orchids, a Florida vendor. He did a great job with the packaging and it was delivered undamaged with the spike intact. There was some mild blistering on the leaves but that could have been due to heat during transport. The blooms were lovely and the fragrance reminded me of double mint gum. They lasted about a week and another spike developed and bloomed in late October. This year's growth looks great and she should be spiking soon.

The first photo shows blooms from her first flowering session last year and the second is what she looks like now.

peeweelovesbooks · #4 09-02-2010, 11:41 PM

Hi Junebug,

do you give it bright light? that seems huge!

Call_Me_Bob · #5 09-02-2010, 11:54 PM

i keep mine in light comparable to that of cattleyas

good luck

Junebug · #6 09-03-2010, 12:07 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by peeweelovesbooks

Hi Junebug,

do you give it bright light? that seems huge!

Until a few months ago she was parked on the screened back porch and only received about 2 to 3 hours of full eastern exposure. Her bulb and leaf growth seemed a bit delayed so I placed her mid level on the south wall of the shade house. Now she receives less eastern, but more southern and some western exposure late in the afternoon. The lattice creates a dappled effect which prevents her from burning.

Call_Me_Bob · #7 09-03-2010, 12:14 AM

mine is small. its from a backbulb. o i think i may have to wait a while for blooms

mab3362 · #8 09-03-2010, 03:24 PM

Check out Sunset Valley Orchids, (google it) Fred Clarke breeds these plants and has many hybrids for sale under $30 and a good culture sheet posted online at the website. I have several from him and have been very happy.