Cattleya purpurata

''Cattleya purpurata'', known in the past as ''Laelia purpurata'' and ''Sophronitis purpurata'', is native to Brazil where it is very popular among orchid growers. It is an epiphyte that is found in the canopy of tall trees near coastal areas, in the Brazilian states of Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina and São Paulo. The orchid favors bright light and cool to warm conditions and is relative easy to cultive. ''C. purpurata'' has been used extensively as a parent in hybridizing with Cattleyas. ''Cattleya purpurata'' blooms from late spring to fall with three to five flowers on a spike. The flowers are long-lasting and fragrant.