Leptotes bicolor 4N (division)

Currently spiking 4/21/24

Leptotes bicolor is a famous Cattleya alliance miniature species native to Paraguay. The flowers are small (large for the plant size), slightly curled with a pink lip and have vanilla fragrance and produce vanillin (like the flavoring used in desserts). Will bloom in intermediate light levels and will bloom often. Grows great mounted or potted in chunky media. EASY.

This particular crop has very bulbous leaves that more closely resemble green beans than the ones found in literature. Extremely unusual presentation and a great collector. Leaves are no longer than 4 inches. 4N means double chromosomes and a more stable plant/more stable traits. 

Divisions include 4-5 leaves/growths (blooming size) and are currently being rooted but may not have roots yet. Can easily be rooted in moss topped chunky media or mounted. Second picture is of one of the mother plants. Grower's choice.

LEPTOTES CARE INFO:

Potting mix: Fine bark or fine and coarse bark mix. Mounted, bare root or with moss. Repot in Spring every 2 years.

Light: Bright indirect - medium light. Shaded South or West facing preferred. Enjoys Cattleya level light but is not required.

Water: Water frequently in hot months when media is dry. 

Temp: Cool-warm (60F min night, 80F max day). Tolerant of higher temps with good watering. 

Humidity: 30-60%, tolerant of low humidity.

Fertilizing: 1/4 strength urea-free fertilizer, every other watering as new roots and leaves emerge Spring-Fall. Flush the pot once monthly to prevent salt build up. Decrease to once monthly in Winter or less.

Photo credit: By Dalton Holland Baptista - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=5770053