Laelia Newberry Sprite

 

Laelia Newberry Sprite (Laelia perinii x Laelia pumila).

 

The cattleya type of orchids are my favorite but require specific conditions. They need very bright but not direct light (3,000 to 5,000 foot candles to be precise). They need 55 to 60 degree temperatures at night and 70 to 85 degrees during the day (depending on the type, some need 10 degrees cooler than this for high altitude species), with 15 to 20 degrees of difference between day and night and slightly cooler temperatures in the winter. Humidity should be 50 to 80%. These being epiphytes, they need a coarse mix with plenty of air around their roots. They are also sensitive to day length. Many miniature species require higher light levels and cooler temperatures than the larger species (such as the rupiculous or rock-growing Brazilian species). Fortunately my Newberry Sprite, while nearly a miniature, is considered temperature tolerant, and can put up with (even if it doesn’t prefer) a wider range of temperatures. I’ve had this orchid for more than 10 years.