C. Waianae Leopard 'Ching Hua' C. x Blc. Sun Spots 'Waiomaos Golden Leopard'

If you’re a fan of the spotted "Leopard Cattleyas," this cross is a fantastic example of what breeders aim for. This isn't a named hybrid, but rather a cross between two highly celebrated, spotted parents. The goal here is clear: combine the best traits of two champion spotted orchids to create the next generation of standouts.

Let’s break down the parentage. The pod parent, Cattleya Waianae Leopard 'Ching Hua', is a famous orchid in its own right, having earned an Award of Merit from the American Orchid Society (AM/AOS). It consistently produces clusters of waxy, bronze-green flowers that are almost completely covered in bold, burgundy spots. Its ancestry is rooted in tough Brazilian species like Cattleya guttata and Cattleya schilleriana, which contribute the heavy spotting, waxy texture, and a shockingly vibrant fuchsia lip.

The pollen parent is Blc. Sun Spots 'Waiomao's Golden Leopard'. As the name suggests, this one brings a brilliant golden-yellow background color to its leopard-like spots. Its family tree includes the legendary Cattleya dowiana for that intense yellow color, more Cattleya guttata for spotting, and a touch of Brassavola digbyana, which can add a wonderful fringe to the lip and a unique nighttime fragrance.

So, what can we expect from the offspring? A beautiful and variable showcase of spots. Since this is a seed cross, each plant will be a unique individual. The flower background color will range from the bronze-green of 'Ching Hua' to the bright gold of 'Waiomao's Golden Leopard', with many landing on a fantastic antique gold or chartreuse. All of them will be splashed with dramatic, well-defined spots in shades of deep red to chocolate brown. The lips should be particularly stunning—expect brilliant magenta, some with gold veining, and a few lucky ones might even show that famous digbyana fringe. The flowers will be substantial, waxy, and long-lasting, carried in clusters of 3 to 7 on a strong spike. Given the fragrant ancestors, a pleasant spicy-sweet scent is highly likely.

The plant itself will be a robust grower. Thanks to the double dose of Cattleya guttata in the background, expect tall, bifoliate (two-leaved) pseudobulbs that can reach 15 in. or more. The leaves are leathery and tough, a testament to their Brazilian coastal heritage. Blooming season is typically late summer into fall.

Care Instructions

Light: Provide bright, filtered light. These orchids can handle some direct morning sun, but should be protected from intense midday sun. A light, apple-green leaf color indicates correct light levels.

Water: Water thoroughly and allow the potting medium to dry out completely before watering again. This hybrid's ancestry makes it intolerant of soggy roots. Reduce watering frequency slightly during cooler months.

Temperature: This orchid thrives in intermediate to warm conditions, typical for most Cattleya hybrids. Ideal temperature range is 60-85°F. The Brassavola influence provides good heat tolerance.

Humidity: Prefers humidity levels of 50-70%. Good air circulation is crucial to prevent fungal and bacterial issues, especially in high humidity.

Potting Medium: A very coarse, well-draining orchid mix is essential. Large-grade fir bark, charcoal, and lava rock (cinder) are excellent components. They grow well in clay pots or baskets that allow for fast drying of the root system. Repot every two to three years when new root growth begins.

Please note: flower photos are examples of parent plants. We have not yet seen these beauties flower!

Grown in Hawaii in 3" pots. Currently offered in blooming size only.