Leaf or Sheath on Laeliocatanthe?

[c123anderson]

Newer plant for me from a cutting given to me in March — so 4 months ago.

I’m still very new to Catts, so I’m not sure if this is a leaf or a sheath. Yes, there is a little dew on it, too. Can anyone tell me what I should look for for a sheath versus a leaf?

Culture: grown indoors. Temps: 68F-73F. Humidity: 44%-80%.

[DirtyCoconuts]

it is new growth that appears to have the sheath already formed- you have to keep watching but it looks normal and happy

[WaterWitchin]

What DC says ^^

[c123anderson]

<happy dance>

Thanks for the confirmation.

Any place where I can learn more about IDing sheaths? I’ve looked at the AOS info, but I don’t feel it’s answered my question all the way.

[Jmoney]

I question if this is a 2nd leaf - if this is a bifolate cattleya then this is most likely in my opinion a 2nd leaf and you will need to wait longer to see if a sheath pops up.

[estación seca]

It's experience. You learn how many leaves a plant should make with each growth, and the sheath doesn't look quite the same as a leaf.

[c123anderson]

Jmoney: I will watch and wait. I hope …. but I’m happy it’s growing!

ES: I appreciate the guidance as I’m learning. As always, thanks!

[Roberta]

Patience, patience. The plant will tell you .

[c123anderson]

Originally Posted by Roberta

Patience, patience. The plant will tell you .

True, Roberta. I can't say enough how your words have echoed in my ears as I look for signs of growth on orchids. And I have had my patience rewarded, too, several times over (new Laelia growth and dendrobium kingianum keiki with two new growths).

And, I really appreciate the comments. I didn't even think about the Lcn. being a bifoliate cattleya, so this gave me something new to learn about.

Thank you, everyone!

[Roberta]

just to try your patience more... there are some Catts that develop a sheath that then just sits there for months. L. (C.) tenebrosa and purpurate do that. Sheaths can develop in December or January... and not even think of actually blooming until June or July.