Cattleya Bowringiana

[Cjcorner]

I found a new source for monster size cattleyas! It was tough to choose, but this one came home with me. On the next trip I may bring one of their monster Porcia types home. For now i'll have to wait to clean this one up anymore than I have. I have two sets of buds out and three more sheaths (i think) to go. Then I can split it and repot it for the first time in a very long time it looks. I am told these plants are all over 40 years old....hope I don't go and kill it now.



As you can see it is a total mess....



Dead p-bulbs...dried and withered are everywhere! As are dried leaves, etc...



You can see the potting materials have long ago rotted...

[Cjcorner]

Some of the p-bulbs are even making little bulbs at their bottoms like Encyclia. I'm guessing it's the poor growing conditions they've had for years...



But this plant just keeps producing new leads...and buds.





All cleaned up until done blooming. I may have to share a few pieces of this. I tried counting all the p-bulbs...lets just say there is over 60.

[rich63]

Wow Connie, That is a huge plant ! It makes mine look like a midget. I did see one for sale in St.Pete that was kind of pricey. I did get a good deal on mine. You could divide this guy many times. Take Care,Rich

[Daethen]

HUGE. Can't wait to see it in bloom. I'm sure you will not kill it. It will probably reward your kindness with many new growths and blooms. Nice find!

[Raver]

wow thats a really big plant and i bet it will look really pretty when it blooms

[Cjcorner]

wow thats a really big plant and i bet it will look really pretty when it blooms

When it blooms i'll update...funny though i'm not looking forward to it blooming as much as i'm looking forward to putting it in a new basket and watch it take off. This plant has been neglected for so long it should just grow like a weed once I can split and repot it.

[ang709]

Wow! You're right, that is a monster. Looking forward to seeing your pictures when it blooms. I'd also love to see photos once you get it into its new basket.

[Cjcorner]

The flowers all began opening this morning. I'm hoping they look a little perkier tomorrow.



With flash...

[ang709]

Gorgeous color!

[siaogu]

Gorgeous Purple. I do like cattleya for their endless choices of colours...