Rlc. Sung Ya Green 'Mailman'

This exceptional hybrid presents large, striking flowers in a unique chartreuse-green. The blooms can span 6 to 7 in. across, exhibiting a classic Cattleya shape with broad, overlapping petals and sepals. A distinguishing feature is the ruffled lip, which often displays a contrasting magenta or deep fuchsia mark deep in the throat, creating a beautiful focal point. The plant grows as a handsome, bifoliate or intermediate Cattleya type, producing sturdy pseudobulbs topped with thick, leathery leaves that contribute to its robust appearance and easy-to-grow nature. Its strong, upright inflorescences typically bear one to three flowers, making a stunning presentation.

Quick Start Summary:

Light: Bright, indirect light, equivalent to a south or east window with some shading.

Temps: Intermediate to warm, 60 F to 85 F. Provide a 10 to 15 F drop at night to encourage blooming.

Water: Water thoroughly when the growing medium approaches dryness. Allow for slight drying between waterings.

Humidity: Moderate to high, ideally 50 percent or above. Use a humidity tray or grouping plants if needed.

Fertilizer: Balanced orchid fertilizer at half to quarter strength, applied weekly or every other week during active growth.

Media: A coarse, well-draining mix such as medium fir bark, charcoal, and perlite. Repot when new growth begins.

🌺 Orchid Lore & Discovery

Rlc. Sung Ya 'Green Mailman' is a popular modern hybrid resulting from the cross of Rlc. Leslie Hoffman and Rlc. Hausermann's Jade. Both parents contribute desirable traits: Rlc. Leslie Hoffman for its impressive size and form, and Rlc. Hausermann's Jade for its exceptional green coloration and waxy substance. The influence of the genus Rhyncholaelia, specifically through its ancestor Rhyncholaelia digbyana, is evident in the ruffled lip texture and the overall vigor of the plant. This lineage represents decades of careful breeding focused on achieving truly remarkable green Cattleya hybrids that combine excellent form with vibrant, unusual color.

🌿 How to Grow Rlc. Sung Ya Green 'Mailman'

Light: This orchid thrives in bright, indirect light. A position in an east-facing window is ideal, offering gentle morning sun, or a south-facing window where the intense midday light is diffused by a sheer curtain. Insufficient light will result in a reluctance to flower, while too much direct sun can scorch the leaves, leading to yellow or black patches. Aim for leaf color to be a medium olive-green; dark green leaves suggest a need for more light.

Temps: Maintain intermediate to warm temperatures. Daytime temperatures should range from 75 F to 85 F, and night temperatures should not drop below 60 F. To ensure reliable blooming, it is beneficial to provide a distinct temperature difference between day and night, ideally 10 to 15 F. Avoid placing the plant near cold drafts or direct heat sources.

Water: Water generously when the potting mix is nearly dry. For plants in bark, this may be every 4 to 7 days, depending on environmental factors. When in doubt, it is safer to wait an extra day. The pseudobulbs should be firm and plump; shriveling indicates the plant is receiving too little water or the roots are compromised. Always use tepid water and avoid letting the pot sit in standing water.

Humidity: High humidity is appreciated, with levels of 50 percent or more being optimal. If indoor air is dry, especially during winter heating, increase local humidity by placing the pot on a tray of pebbles and water, ensuring the bottom of the pot is not touching the water. Good air circulation is vital to prevent fungal issues in humid conditions.

Fertilizer: Feed with a balanced, water-soluble orchid fertilizer, such as a 20-20-20 formula. Apply at half the recommended strength every week during the active growing season (spring through fall) or at a quarter strength with every watering. Reduce the frequency and strength during the winter rest period or when the plant is not actively growing.

Media: Use a coarse, quickly draining potting medium. A mix of medium-grade fir bark, lava rock, or specialized commercial Cattleya mixes is recommended. This orchid prefers to be slightly pot-bound. Repot only when the medium starts to break down or when new roots are just beginning to emerge from the newest growth, typically every one to two years.

Gorgeous, robust plants grown in 4" pots. Some are in bud!