Cattleya schilleriana var. Imperialis

[Rosim_in_BR]

This is a beautiful species that once lived in the State of Espirito Santo, here in Brazil. This is another that if is not extinct in the wild, is on the verge of extinction. Again, excessive collection of plants and, above all, deforestation are the main causes. I heard that it’s not possible to find it in Espirito Santo anymore, where it was once plentiful, and that a small population was found in the south of Bahia that remains hidden for protection. Better this way! The flowers are gorgeous to me and the perfume is intoxicating so strong and good it is! This is a variety of reddish-brown flowers and white background in the lip, which, BTW, is 1,8” across. I grow five other plants of this species.

[Neverend]

Wow, beautiful! Sad to hear that these are nearing extinction in the wild though.

[Lagoon]

Very Sad indeed, becomming a to commen story to hear.
Such a beautiful orchid to look at. I'm glad to see yours, Mauro.
I wonder how many others we will loose in just this year alone.

[Toddybear]

Another lovely species! Great pics as always!

[justatypn]

Gorgeous Mauro, excellent information

[tuvoc]

I think that one just moved from my wish to must have list! Can you give us some idea of how tall it grows? Growing indoors presents some space limitations. As usuall great growing, and great photo, Mauro!

Kim

[Rosim_in_BR]

Originally Posted by tuvoc

I Can you give us some idea of how tall it grows?
Kim

Thanks, Kim and all the guys for the kind words! Kim, a mature pseudo bulb of a well-grown, strong plant can be 7 inches long. In such situation the leaves, making a square angle with the bulb can be 5.2" long. See, it is not a tall plant, but it has a sprawling growing habit, tending to keep the pseudo bulbs in an almost horizontal position. In other words, you probably will need horizontal space, not vertical.

[gmdiaz]

Wow, those blooms are a show stopper!

I sure do get sad about all the beauty that gets displaced in this world. Sheesh, I wish we could give other living things a little more room. . .to live.

[cb977]

Mauro, she's a beauty!
Very sad to hear that something this beautiful could be wiped away from us

[quiltergal]

Wow Mauro! That is amazing! If I mail myself to you in a box will you let me play in your greenhouse? Your collection is awesome!

Well said Gwen. Unfortunately there will always be those that don't see the value of preserving species in danger of disappearing forever.