Arachnis cathcartii

Arachnis cathcartii is native to Northern India, growing in cool shady areas in deep ravines. This fantastic species has 6 to 8-inch long flat 2-lobed leaves that alternate on either side of a stiff wiry stem and are spaced about an inch to 3 inches apart. The flower spikes emerge from between the leaves and produce one of the most interesting flowers in the orchid world. The large flowers have concentric rings in deep mahogany with a yellow background and a hinged flexible lip that moves with the slightest breeze. The flowers are waxy and last for 8-10 weeks. We have grown these plants from seed for several years and they are just now nearing flowering size. The majority of the larger sizes (5 leaves and up) should flower in 2014. Not often seen in today's collections. Grow as for Phalaenopsis but will tolerate cooler conditions as well if kept somewhat drier between watering.