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Christmas Orchid
Cattleya trianaei · Orchidaceae
How it looks
The Christmas Orchid (Cattleya) is an orchid with thick, glossy leaves and large, showy pink-purple flowers borne 1-5 per slender stalk. It blooms in winter, and the central lip-shaped petal is ruffled. It grows 12-20 in (30-50 cm) tall.
Christmas Orchid is an orchid with no known toxicity to cats according to the ASPCA. Both potted plants and cut flowers are safe to have around.
Guide for parents
Most orchids are a safe plant group for cats. Their long, elegant blooms make them popular decor, but checking the exact scientific name before bringing one home matters. The thick, firm leaves don't invite much chewing, but while it's in bloom, make a habit of picking up fallen petals the same day. Use a low-concentration plant fertilizer, and right after feeding, keep your cat away from the pot area briefly so they don't lick around it. Watering schedules vary by orchid species, so note the species name at purchase and look up its care.
Details
- Scientific name
- Cattleya trianaei
- Common name
- Christmas Orchid
- Family
- Orchidaceae
- Source
- ASPCA
