Cattleya labiata 'Rotunda'

[Spider]

Originally Posted by Rosim_in_BR

Yes, Frederico, I am sure it is not hybrid. I can understand the hesitation, but people who say that maybe don't know exactly what has been done inside this species and for sure don't know the genetic potential of the parents used here. Gone are the days labiatas (type!) were thin flowers.
Mr. Longhin is a dear old friend of mine. He lives and grows his orchids near me. I know him since 1982. He is now in his 80's and has been growing orchids for more than 60 years. With no favor, he is a living encyclopedia of labiatas and purpuratas. I dare to say that there's nobody else here in Brazil that knows Cattleya labiata better than he. If he says it is labiata, it is. If he says it is not, belive him, it is not. I have a deep and reverent respect for him and his knowledge of orchids, especially on this species, and because he has been my mentor since I knew him more than 25 years ago. And also am profoundly grateful of having the pleasure and the priviledge of meeting him every Tuesdays at our orchid society meetings.
BTW, his plant is a sister of mine.
One more thing, Frederico, and I know you know this, every time the flower is exceptional they start saying it is a hybrid... is this true or not? The same person that today says a certain plant is a hybrid, tomorrow gets a piece and then, my miracle, start saying it is species...

Mauro, you are blessed