Epicattleya Canthy Meincer (C. Angelwalker x Epi. stamfordianum)

We have just registered this orchid, naming it after the wife of its creator, Bill Meincer. This is the kind of unusual, yet beautiful orchid hybrid that we would like to see much more frequently. We bought this intriguing plant as an unflowered seedling from the Meincer's nursery when it was going out of business some years back. We almost discarded it because each highly anticipated new growth produced no blooms for several years. But finally, it seems enough plant mass had accumulated and it threw two amazing spikes! The flowers are decidedly in the Epi. stamfordianum shape, but are about 2 inches across, and rose pink with darker veins. Plus, they are fragrant, courtesy of C. Angelwalker, and remind us somewhat of our own native Purple Fringed Orchid! Since this photo was taken, the plant has grown into an impressive specimen that makes a magnificent show each spring. We can hardly wait!