C. amethystoglossa (Florida bred)
 

C. amethystoglossa (Brazilian bred) has been my absolute favorite of the cattleya species. However, this 1st-time bloom of my C. amethystoglossa (Florida bred) is just as captivating. I love the bold spotting and the gorgeous fuchsia/pink/red tones. My garden is filled with its strong, pleasing fragrance, too. I'm hooked!

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This is one of my favorite species too! I also think I prefer the clearer looking breeding, but so far the only one large enough to bloom for me is ''xxx' which I think is Florida breeding? Which others do you have?

Yes, 'XXX' denotes Florida breeding lines. I purchased this particular orchid from Palmers Orchids. It was a mature plant from their selfing of ‘XXX’ (C. amethystoglossa ‘XXX’ x self).

I also have a pale variety of C. amethystoglossa (2N) that is my favorite -- see below. I'm currently on the search for a 4N variety (a larger plant with larger flowers) to also add to my collection.

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The best polyploids come from H&R, though they're 3N. You get all the flower perks with a 3N, but just can't breed with it.

Thanks for the tip, Stephen. I just downloaded the H&R NURSERIES - Spring 2025 - Retail List for Mar. 8, 2025 thru June 15, 2025. I see a few C. amethystoglossa 4N selections :) There are also some other wishlist goodies (ie. C. rex, C. warscewiczii v. semi-alba, C. dowiana) that, unfortunately, are already sold out or I can't afford at the moment. A girl can continue to dream, though, right? :lol:

Those look great. Congratulations.

So many cool color forms too.

Indeed! However, H&R owners are retiring soon so those plants won't be around for long!

Yes, I recall you mentioning that in an Orchid Board post back a few years ago. So, I kicked myself into gear and ordered one of the C. amethystoglossa 4N compots. The flowers will have a light pink blush with dark purple spots.

Since my selection is a sibling cross between two 4N parents, I'm thinking the plants will be pretty hardy and resilient bifoliates. Have you found that to be the case with polyploids?

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Thank you, Steve :) Species bifoliates are definitely a challenge to grow. I'm still learning everyday how to keep mine happy and thriving.

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Yes, there are! I'm working on adding several more color varieties (i.e. coral, coerulea) to my collection :)

Yes, I found the polyploids to be easy! I’ve also had good luck with diploids too, however. It’s a very vigorous species in my conditions.