Cattleya (Laelia) purpurata var. Werkhauseri buds/sheath

[arcticshaun]

I've had this plant for years under lights with no sheaths or buds. Finally it got a position in my brightest window for a year and at long last I have two buds on it's largest growth. My question is about the fact that the growth produced buds with no sheath and the plant produced a growth with two leaves. As I've read that this is a monofoliate Catt. that produces sheaths this concerns me. I know some Catt. hybrids vary in growth/sheath/bloom due their complex genetic backgrounds but this a species (hopefully). I know the proof would be in the bloom but can anyone alleviate my fear about this admittedly minor abnormality? I should also note that this plant grew under 20 + hours of daylight as I reside north of 62 degrees latitude.

Thanks
Shaun

[Brooke]

I don't think you have anything to worry about. I've grown the Werhauseri for years and on occasion it will get a second leaf.

I also have several other unifoliate species that will produce a second leaf. Even more strange is sometimes my bifoliates will produce a third leaf.

Congrats on getting any buds even without a sheath since you live so far north.

Brooke

[arcticshaun]

Cool, thanks Brooke.

[Macha51]

Hi ArcticShaun,
Any photo you could post ? I live a bit more to the south than you and I think my Laelia same variety is preparing something though it's not very big. Thanks !

[arcticshaun]

Sure, here's the plant currently blooming. It didn't take very long once I saw the buds for it to open. I have to stop and smell it almost continually


Shaun

[lotis146]

That's pretty, good job!

[Macha51]

Just lovely ! Hope mine is as nice !

[Gthumbz89]

Very beautiful plant! I'm also glad that your fears were alleviated.