Laelia anceps

RC Orchids specializes in the cultivation and breeding of Laeila anceps orchids, as well as other members of the Cattleya alliance, in Southern California. Laelia anceps are ideal outdoor growers in our Southern California coastal areas as well as other areas with similar climates throughout the world.

Laelia anceps are fast growing plants that can range from small to very large impressive specimens. Most have long flower spikes terminating in a cluster of beautiful blooms. Some are even fragrant. They typically bloom in the winter and are great for naturalizing in the temperate garden by mounting onto trees. See the culture information below for more information.

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Laelia anceps Culture

Laelia anceps, a member of the Cattleya alliance, is a native of Mexico, but also occurs more rarely in Guatemala and Honduras. It is one of the most common and satisfying orchids to grow outdoors in coastal California. Its ease of care makes it an ideal plant for the beginner as well as the expert. Laelia anceps is one of the hardiest for cold tolerance of any of the Cattleya alliance, tolerating reported lows of 22ºF without any damage. High temperatures over 100ºF rarely trouble it. Its blooming season is customarily November through January. It is grown in pots or mounted, and in subtropical areas is noted for being one of the best to naturalize on trees around the garden, where regular watering is usually adequate. Many trees (except pines) are well suited for Laelia anceps. Oaks are among the best of trees, and jacarada, palms, citrus, fiejoa, dracinias, and white birch are also quite good. Plants should be tied or stapled to trunks and branches.

Light: Laelia anceps likes medium to high light, about 2000-3500 foot-candles. Bright light to some sun must be given to the plants, but no direct sun in the middle of the day. Leaves should be a medium green color. Very low light is not adequate for successful blooming.

Temperature: Laelia anceps is one of the more temperature tolerant orchids in cultivation today, making it a natural for outdoor growing in southern California and comparable climates. It has been known to survive winter nights of down to 22ºF unharmed, higher day temperatures can be tolerated (up to 100 degrees F), if humidity, air circulation and shading are increased.

Water: Water frequently throughout the growing season, which is mostly April through November. Mounted plants may be watered daily during spring and summer. Water may be reduced in the winter dormant time. Washing off the flower buds by rain or hose is often needed to keep buds from sticking together. Fertilizer: Regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer will enhance growth, particularly during the growing season of April to November.

Potting: Potting is necessary when the rhizome of the plants protrudes over the edge of the pot, or the potting medium starts to break down and drain poorly (usually after 2 to 3 years). It is best to repot just before new roots sprout from the rhizome, after flowering, or in the spring time.