Ctna. Why Not (yellow) Makana ke Akua

Here we have the cheerful and classic Cattleytonia Why Not 'Makana ke Akua'. Now, for those of you who follow orchid taxonomy, you may know the parent names have been shuffled around a bit by the botanists, technically making this a Guaritonia. But in the world of growers, it will likely always be the famous Ctna. Why Not, and we're sticking to it!

This is a primary hybrid between Cattleya aurantiaca and Broughtonia sanguinea. The parents give us a hint about what this plant enjoys. C. aurantiaca comes from the seasonally dry forests of Mexico and Central America, while B. sanguinea is a tough little orchid from the sunny, windswept coastal areas of Jamaica. Both are accustomed to bright light and a distinct dry period.

The result of this pairing is a wonderfully compact and resilient orchid. It has slender, club-shaped pseudobulbs, each with two very stiff, durable leaves. It's an excellent plant that doesn't take up much room.

The cultivar name 'Makana ke Akua' translates from Hawaiian to "Gift from God," and the flowers certainly live up to it. Held in clusters high above the leaves, the star-shaped blooms are about 1.5 to 2 inches across and a brilliant, sunny yellow. This hybrid is famously forgiving and is a prolific bloomer, often flowering more than once a year in spring and fall.

Care Instructions

Light: Provide bright to very bright light, similar to what is recommended for Cattleya orchids, around 2,000 to 3,500 foot-candles. An east, south, or west-facing window is suitable, but it may need some light shading during the hottest part of the day to prevent leaf scorch.

Water: This hybrid has excellent drought tolerance. Water thoroughly, then allow the potting medium to dry out completely before watering again. Overwatering is the fastest way to harm this plant.

Temperature: It is a warm-growing orchid. Daytime temperatures should be between 75-85°F, with night temperatures between 60-65°F. It can tolerate slightly warmer conditions if humidity and air circulation are good.

Humidity: Moderate humidity levels of 50% to 70% are ideal. Good air movement is critical to prevent fungal or bacterial issues.

Potting Medium: Excellent drainage is essential. This plant thrives when mounted on cork bark or tree fern. If potted, use a very coarse, open medium such as large-grade fir bark, lava rock, or charcoal in a small clay pot or hanging basket that allows the roots to dry quickly.