Pink Madonna orchid (Cattleya trianaei)
This superb specimen of Cattleya orchid belongs to Paluma residents Michael and Donna Drew. The beautiful mauve, deep purple and yellow blooms are long lasting and Michael says that these flowers first opened in early July.
The orchid is about 10 years old and was purchased by Donna at an Orchid Society Show in Townsville. The plant is happily growing in shaded conditions in the fork of a small tree with rough, corky bark. Michael feeds the plant regularly with a spray of liquid fish emulsion and the odd banana skin (as a source of potassium).
Michael has named the orchid ‘Pink Madonna’ after his lovely wife, Donna.
Did you know that the genus of Cattleya orchids was first named in 1824 in tribute to William Cattley of England who was a keen cultivator of tropical plants. These orchids originate from the Central and South Americas.
Text and Photos by Michele Bird