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PlantSnap
Plant Care
Orange cattleya
(Guarianthe aurantiaca)
Also Known As
Orange cattleya, Cattleya aurantiaca, Guarianthe
About This Plant
Guarianthe aurantiaca is a species of orchid native to Mexico and Central America. It has bright orange flowers with a yellow center and a pleasant fragrance. The plant produces pseudobulbs, which store water and nutrients to help the plant survive during dry periods.
Plant Care Instructions
Outdoor Size Range
12-24 inches (30-60 cm)
Light Requirements
Guarianthe aurantiaca thrives in bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can scorch the leaves.
Humidity Needs
This orchid prefers high humidity levels, around 60-70%. It can benefit from being misted regularly or placed on a tray of pebbles with water to increase humidity.
Fertilizing Schedule
Fertilize with a balanced orchid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce fertilization during the fall and winter months.
Pruning Guidelines
After the flowers have faded, cut the flower spike down to the base of the plant. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves as needed.
Common Pests and Diseases
Common pests for Guarianthe aurantiaca include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Keeping humidity levels high can help prevent these pests.
Indoor Size Range
12-18 inches (30-45 cm)
Watering Schedule
Watering should be done when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. The plant prefers to be kept evenly moist, but be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.
Temperature Range
Guarianthe aurantiaca prefers temperatures between 60-80°F (15-27°C). It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures at night, but should not be exposed to temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Growing Season
The growing season for Guarianthe aurantiaca is in the spring and summer months.
Growing Difficulty Level
Guarianthe aurantiaca is considered a moderately difficult orchid to grow. It requires specific conditions in terms of light, temperature, and humidity, but with proper care can thrive.
USDA Hardiness Zones
Guarianthe aurantiaca is not a cold-hardy plant and should be grown indoors or in a greenhouse. It is not assigned a USDA hardiness zone.
Did You Know?
Guarianthe aurantiaca was previously classified as a member of the Cattleya genus, but was reclassified in 2003 by the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew.
