Cattleya intermedia var. lilacina

[Autumn Child]

Originally Posted by Rosim_in_BR

In my opinion this is one of the most beautiful among the many varieties this species has. But, as nothing comes easy, it is also difficult, a tricky plant to keep and make bloom. This variety is often seen labeled as 'suave' or 'suavissima', depending on the intensity of the pink color in the lip, but I believe that 'lilacina' is the correct name for it. The plant is very short, as can be seen in one of the photos.

Flowers close:
Cattleya intermedia Graham ex Hook. - var. lilacina on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

Plant and flowers:
Cattleya intermedia Graham ex Hook. - var. lilacina on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

Detail of the lip:
Cattleya intermedia Graham ex Hook. var. lilacina on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

I just bought c.intermedia suavissima "tokyo". I thought c.intermedia is a beginner orchid until i saw this thread. What do you mean by tricky to grow and bloom? Any advice for beginner grower like me?

I also heard that this variant is not fragrant. Is this true?

[Rosim_in_BR]

Originally Posted by Eyebabe

Mauro your blooms are so beautiful that it's easy to lose the acknowledgement that you are also amazingly talented at capturing their display
I so enjoy your work and always anticipate a nice treat when I see your posts.

Thank you very much, Eyebabe. It's very kind of you!

Originally Posted by Autumn Child

I just bought c.intermedia suavissima "tokyo". I thought c.intermedia is a beginner orchid until i saw this thread. What do you mean by tricky to grow and bloom? Any advice for beginner grower like me?

I also heard that this variant is not fragrant. Is this true?

Cattleya intermedia in several of its variations yes, is a beginner orchid, you are right, but somes clones and sometimes a few varieties are a little difficult to grow. This lilacina (and also the other similar, known as suavissima or suave) use to be a little difficult to keep healthy roots, so the plants don't develop their full potential. In other words, it is a little more difficult to lead the plant to a very good condition because the root system most of times is not as extensive as it would be desirable to support a good plant.
As to the fragrance, well, to my nose it is not fragrant!