Tiger Cattleya
cattleya tigrina
Also known as: ["Tiger Orchid"]
Overview
A species of orchid known for its striking tiger-like patterns on its flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Cattleya |
| Botanical Name: | Cattleya tigrina |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with excellent air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially during dry periods
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Orchid bark mix with perlite and charcoal for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when leaves turn yellow.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than 20% of foliage at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; adjust to morning sun exposure to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun; provide shade during peak hours; adjust indoor placement for optimal light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Use sheer curtains for filtered light; rotate plant weekly for even exposure; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 5–7 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; ensure thorough saturation to reach root zone; allow soil to dry between waterings.
Soil
orchid bark mix with perlite
pH: Slightly acidic (5.5–6.5).
Use pre-made orchid mix; avoid regular potting soil; ensure medium is coarse.
Temperature
Ideal range 60–80°F (15–27°C); cooler nights (55–65°F) promote blooming; avoid extreme fluctuations.
Use a thermometer to monitor; group plants for microclimate; avoid placing near vents.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth with balanced orchid fertilizer, none in winter
Flush soil periodically to prevent salt buildup; fertilize after watering to avoid root burn; adjust frequency based on growth phase.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings (keikis) or division of pseudobulbs.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy pseudobulb, cut below node, apply hormone, place in medium, maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when new growth begins.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–80°F), indirect light.
Medium
Orchid mix with perlite or sphagnum moss.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for keikis.
Timeline
4–8 weeks for roots to develop; 6–12 months to establish.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, orchid mix, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Keep cuttings moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting; monitor for signs of rot.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip dead or damaged parts at the base; trim spent flower spikes just above a node.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers and yellow leaves to redirect energy; shape plant for better light exposure.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, remove dead parts, shape growth, clean debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, after flowering, when new growth appears.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove old medium, trim roots, place in fresh orchid mix, ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when medium breaks down; essential for healthy root growth.
Checklist
Prepare new pot, trim roots, use fresh medium, water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base, avoiding foliage; ensure water penetrates the root zone; allow excess to drain completely; water in the morning for optimal absorption.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot; increase during active growth in spring and summer.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite for drainage, use orchid bark for aeration, incorporate charcoal to absorb toxins.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf discoloration, bud drop, stunted growth, or wilting.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf damage, and may lead to root rot.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering.
Hot Stress
Causes leaf scorch, dehydration, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; use shade cloth.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer, apply during growth, flush periodically, stop in dormancy.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced orchid fertilizer (20-20-20) at half strength every 2–4 weeks during active growth; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCattleya tigrina is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant poses no significant risk if ingested or handled by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicCattleya tigrina is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant poses no significant risk if ingested or handled by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicCattleya tigrina is not known to exhibit any toxic properties to humans. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption, though it is not typically ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Cattleya tigrina?
A: Water when the potting medium is nearly dry, typically every 7-10 days depending on conditions.
Q: Does Cattleya tigrina require special lighting?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light, similar to other orchids.
Q: Can Cattleya tigrina be grown outdoors?
A: It is best suited for indoor cultivation, though it can be placed outdoors in a sheltered, shaded spot during warmer months.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 5–7 days during active |
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