Clear sap behind the flower of a cattleya on its stem?
 

I have noticed that there are small little sphere shape balls of sap I believe coming from the stem of the flower of my cattleya. Is it bugs, a disease or is it normal?

Thanks!

Had the same on my oncidium, will be hovering over this thread

It is "happy sap". Usually shows up when in bloom or near bloom. Normal

Haha, "happy sap" - never heard it called that before. Tastes delicious, though - really sweet. :)

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Some people theorize it attracts ants that protect the flower from nastier bugs.

Seems logical.

Thanks!

My flies seem to like it also but I don't like them.

Wasps too.

I am solidly in the camp with those who believe the nectar secretions are produced by the orchid to attract ants. This trait is found in many genera of orchids. The glands that secrete the nectar are often found near the flowers, but, since they occur outside the flowers, they would presumably have no effect on pollination. Peonies also use nectar on the flower buds before they open to attract ants. Orchids and other plants have evolved many fascinating relationships with ants. This is just one example.

wuness