Rlc. Kathy Yamanaka Volcano Queen

Grand White Flowers and a Royal Lip Accent

A grand classic-style Cattleya cross that brings all the drama of a traditional exhibition bloom without requiring a sprawling conservatory.

Each wide-petaled bloom opens a clean, crisp stark white with a striking deep violet-magenta or rich purple lip, set off by a brilliant flash of gold right in the throat. The heavy, waxy petals sit flat and proud, giving the massive four to five-inch flower the unmistakable look of a crown.

This is the quintessential royal Cattleya look that made generations of collectors fall in love with the genus in the first place. You get that luscious, sweet citrus-and-clove fragrance that drifts through the house right around mid-morning, along with a plant that stays surprisingly well-mannered on a sunny windowsill. It is a vigorous, reliable grower that builds strong pseudobulbs and rewards you every year with a display that belongs on a trophy table.

Quick Care Guide

• Light: Bright, filtered light. An east or west window with a sheer curtain to keep leaves at a pale apple-green.

• Water: Drench thoroughly, then allow the potting media to dry out almost completely between waterings.

• Temperature: Nights 58–65°F, days 70–86°F. A 10–15 degree night drop helps trigger bloom spikes.

• Fertilizer: Feed weekly with a balanced orchid fertilizer at quarter-strength during active spring and summer growth.

• Mature size: Pseudobulbs and leaves reach 10 to 14 inches tall; inflorescence holds blooms just above the foliage.