Brassolaeliocattleya orchids

Brassolaeliocattleya (abbreviated Blc.) is a three-parent intergeneric hybrid genus, combining Brassavola, Laelia, and Cattleya. The nothogenus follows the orchid convention of combining elements of each parent genus in the name. Blc. hybrids dominate the modern Cattleya-alliance cut-flower and corsage market, bringing together the strong colour and form of Cattleya, the intensified saturation and compact growth of Laelia, and the big heart-shaped lip and fragrance of Brassavola.

Following the 2008–09 revision of the Cattleya alliance, the big-lipped parent behind most Blc. hybrids, Brassavola digbyana, became Rhyncholaelia digbyana, and the Brazilian Laelia species moved into Cattleya. The RHS re-registered the affected grexes as Rhyncholaeliocattleya (Rlc.), which is where most of them now sit on Florafinders: see Rhyncholaeliocattleya. Older tags and nursery catalogues still read Blc.; the plants are the same.

General care for the genus (species, hybrids and cultivars vary, so check with the grower for a specific plant): as for Cattleya. Bright light (2,500 to 4,000 footcandles), intermediate to warm temperatures, dry between waterings, 50 to 70 percent humidity, good airflow, medium to coarse bark.

Famous hybrids first registered under this name include Memoria Helen Brown 'Sweet Afton' AM/AOS, Chia Lin 'New City' AM/AOS, Yen Corona 'Green Genius' HCC/AOS, and Waianae Leopard, all now filed as Rhyncholaeliocattleya. Listings below come from the nurseries we index, most of them re-checked nightly; prices are shown in USD.