{"product_id":"cattleya-walkeriana-blue-1","title":"Cattleya walkeriana Blue","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCattleya walkeriana f. coerulea, often referred to as the “blue” form, is one of the most beloved color variants of this iconic Brazilian species. While the standard walkeriana is known for its soft pink flowers with a brightly colored lip, the coerulea form exudes a cool, refined elegance with its blue-purple hues. It is a rare and highly sought-after form that appeals to collectors worldwide.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch2\u003eOrigin\u003c\/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eCattleya walkeriana is endemic to Brazil, where it often grows lithophytically on rocks or epiphytically on trees in the Cerrado and savanna forests. The coerulea form is a natural color mutation that occurs only rarely and has therefore become highly sought after in cultivation.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch2\u003eCharacteristics\u003c\/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe flowers of the walkeriana blue are medium-sized, fleshy, and strongly scented. The petals display a cool lavender- to violet-blue hue, while the lip exhibits a deeper purple-blue, often with a white or yellow center that provides contrast. The inflorescence usually appears solitary or with a few flowers per stem, but the lack of abundant blooms is more than compensated for by the unique color and fragrance. The plant itself is compact, with short pseudobulbs and sturdy leaves.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch2\u003eCare\u003c\/h2\u003e \u003ch3\u003eLight\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003ePlenty of bright light is essential. As a lithophytic species, walkeriana tolerates more sun than many other Cattleya orchids. Direct morning and evening sun are ideal.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch3\u003eTemperature\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eWarm conditions of 20–28 °C are preferred, with a slight drop in temperature at night.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch3\u003eSubstrate\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eA well-aerated mixture of coarse bark and charcoal works well. Because of its short roots, this species is also ideally suited for growing in baskets or on cork.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch3\u003eHumidity\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eA humidity level of 60–80% is ideal, provided there is good air circulation.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch3\u003eFertilization\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eDuring the growing season, lightly fertilize weekly with orchid fertilizer.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch3\u003eWatering\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eUse only demineralized water. Allow the growing medium to almost dry out between waterings; this species can withstand short periods of drought but cannot tolerate roots that remain wet for extended periods.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch2\u003eFlowering\u003c\/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe blooms of Cattleya walkeriana f. coerulea are enchanting with their cool blue hues and delightful fragrance. This variety is often considered one of the most elegant forms of walkeriana and is an absolute must-have for collectors who appreciate unusual color forms.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Cattleya","offers":[{"title":"10 cm \/ Nee","offer_id":57557878997365,"sku":"C-1REF-CATWALBLN","price":74.95,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true},{"title":"10 cm \/ Ja","offer_id":57557879030133,"sku":"C-1REF-CATWALBLJ","price":169.95,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0697\/7231\/2852\/products\/c._walkeriana_blue_5__1.jpg?v=1676371158","url":"https:\/\/orchids-shop.com\/products\/cattleya-walkeriana-blue-1","provider":"Claessen Orchids \u0026 Plants","version":"1.0","type":"link"}