The Procatavola ‘Key Lime Stars’ orchid is a popular hybrid known for its vibrant color and relatively straightforward care requirements, making it an excellent choice for a home grower. This orchid distinguishes itself with bright, star-shaped flowers that bloom prolifically, often multiple times a year. Its general appeal lies in its combination of visual beauty, a delightful fragrance, and a robust growth habit. The hybrid nature of ‘Key Lime Stars’ means it combines desirable traits from several parent species, resulting in a vigorous plant that adapts well to intermediate growing conditions indoors.
The Hybrid Genesis of Procatavola
The genus name Procatavola designates a complex intergeneric cross from three orchid genera: Prosthechea, Cattleya, and Brassavola. This specific hybrid, ‘Key Lime Stars’, was registered in 2019 by R. Tokunaga, resulting from the cross of Cattleychea ‘Lime Sherbet’ and Brassavola nodosa. The three species contributing to its genetic makeup are Brassavola nodosa (50%), Cattleya forbesii (25%), and Prosthechea mariae (25%).
This parentage dictates the plant’s overall growth characteristics and vigor. Brassavola nodosa contributes a tolerance for temperature swings and its unique nocturnal fragrance, while Cattleya forbesii and Prosthechea mariae introduce the pseudobulb structure and influence the overall flower shape and color. The combination of these traits results in a plant that is considerably more adaptable and forgiving than many pure species, thriving in the intermediate temperature range suitable for most homes.
Distinctive Floral Characteristics
The flowers of ‘Key Lime Stars’ typically measuring about 4 inches across. The sepals and petals are a bright, clear lime green, often possessing a waxy texture that gives the bloom a crystalline appearance. The flower’s lip, or labellum, presents a contrasting color, usually a pale yellow-green with a vibrant lime-green throat that is frequently accented with small burgundy spots.
The stellate or star shape is a defining characteristic, with the petals and sepals spreading wide and pointed. This orchid is also known for its fragrance, which is a soft, citrusy scent inherited from the Brassavola nodosa parent. This aroma becomes more pronounced in the evening. Mature plants are prolific bloomers, able to produce clusters of several flowers on a single inflorescence, with flowers typically lasting four to six weeks.
Cultivation Requirements
Providing bright, indirect light is necessary for successful blooming. Locations such as an east-facing window or a shaded south or west window are generally suitable, but direct midday sun should be avoided to prevent leaf burn. High light intensity encourages the plant to produce the energy reserves needed for its multi-flowered spikes.
The plant prefers daytime temperatures between 65°F and 85°F. A slight temperature drop at night is important for flower induction, with a target difference of 10°F to 15°F, ideally keeping nighttime lows above 55°F. Moderate to high humidity, in the range of 50% to 70%, is beneficial, but good air circulation must accompany higher humidity levels to prevent fungal issues.
The watering regimen should allow the potting medium to become nearly dry between waterings, after which the plant should be thoroughly soaked until water drains from the bottom of the pot. This practice is typical for orchids with pseudobulbs, which store water and nutrients. A well-draining, open mix is necessary, with medium bark chips used as the primary potting material. Repotting is best done when new root growth is just starting, which allows the plant to quickly establish itself in the fresh medium.
During periods of active growth, a balanced orchid fertilizer should be applied every two to four weeks, diluted to about half the recommended strength. It is beneficial to flush the pot with clear water once a month to prevent the buildup of mineral salts, which can damage the roots. Fertilization should be reduced or suspended during the cooler, less active months of the year.