Time went on and I continued to forget to ask.

Stewart’s moved to Santa Barbara and then got sold to a place in Mississippi. A few years later I contacted the new owners to ask the name. I got ignored and gave up.

Continuing to exercise my faulty memory, I forgot to ask him why he called it “the old variety”. Perhaps it’s the minimal spots?

It amazes me that after all the abuse it has suffered at my hands, I have failed to kill this faithful orchid in 50 years.

Below is an experiment I tried (hope you don’t mind). I decided to see what ChatGPT (the AI site) could tell me about Cattleya amethystoglossa. It did a pretty good job but I had to correct a couple of glaring errors - like plant height “5-7cm” !!!

Per ChatGPT:

Cattleya amethystoglossa is a species of orchid that is native to South America, specifically found in regions of Brazil. It is a part of the Cattleya genus, known for its stunning, large, and fragrant flowers. Here is a detailed overview of Cattleya amethystoglossa:

1. Scientific Classification:
   • Kingdom: Plantae
   • Division: Angiosperms (flowering plants)
   • Class: Monocots
   • Order: Asparagales
   • Family: Orchidaceae
   • Genus: Cattleya
   • Species: amethystoglossa
2. Habitat and Distribution:
   • Found in the southeastern parts of Brazil, particularly in the states of São Paulo, Minas Gerais, and Espírito Santo. It typically grows at altitudes ranging from 200 to 1,500 meters in coastal regions and the surrounding mountains.
   • It thrives in subtropical and tropical climates, often growing in montane forests, where it is epiphytic (growing on trees) or occasionally lithophytic (growing on rocks).
3. Physical Description:
   • Size: It is a medium-sized orchid with pseudobulbs that are up to 3 feet tall.
   • Leaves: The plant has leathery, elongated, bifoliate leaves. The leaves are dark green and shiny, contributing to the plant's attractive appearance.
   • Pseudobulbs: These are slightly flattened and conical, supporting the leaves and flowers. They store water and nutrients, enabling the plant to survive in dry conditions.
4. Flowers:
   • Size: The flowers are medium-sized, up to 4 inches in diameter.
   • Color: The blooms of Cattleya amethystoglossa are notable for their deep, amethyst-like purple or lavender color, which gives the species its name ("amethystoglossa" means "amethyst-colored lip"). The lip of the flower is the most prominent part, often a darker, richer purple.
   • Shape: The flowers have a distinct, open shape with broad, round petals and a wide, flared lip. The lip is often marked with a contrasting yellow or white throat, adding to its beauty.
   • Fragrance: The flowers of Cattleya amethystoglossa are known to be lightly fragrant, which adds to their appeal as ornamental plants.
5. Flowering Season:
   • Typically blooms once a year. The blooming period usually occurs in the early spring.
6. Cultivation and Care:
   • Temperature: As a tropical species, Cattleya amethystoglossa prefers medium to warm temperatures, typically between 25–30°C during the day and 15–18°C at night.
   • Light: It requires bright, indirect light, similar to other Cattleya species. Too much direct sunlight can burn the leaves, while too little light may inhibit blooming.
   • Watering: This orchid prefers to dry out a little between waterings. During the growing season (spring to summer), it should be watered more frequently, while in the dormant period (fall and winter), watering should be reduced.
   • Humidity: High humidity (50–70%) is essential for optimal growth. Misting the plant or placing it in a humidity tray can help maintain the right moisture levels in the air.
   • Potting: Cattleya amethystoglossa is typically grown in bark-based orchid potting mixes that allow good drainage and air circulation to the roots. A clay pot can be used to provide stability and keep the roots cool.
   • Fertilization: During the growing season, a balanced fertilizer (20-20-20) can be applied monthly, diluted to half strength.
7. Propagation:
   • Like many orchids, Cattleya amethystoglossa can be propagated by division. A mature plant with multiple pseudobulbs can be carefully separated to create new plants.
   • Propagation through seed is also possible, though it is much more complex and typically requires a sterile environment and specialized equipment to grow the seedlings in vitro.
8. Hybridization:
   • This orchid has been used in hybridization with other species of the Cattleya genus, contributing to a variety of hybrid orchids that are highly prized in ornamental horticulture. It has been a parent in hybrids due to its attractive flowers and desirable traits like fragrance and color.
9. Conservation Status:
   • While not currently listed as endangered, Cattleya amethystoglossa is found in a relatively limited geographic area, and its natural habitat is subject to deforestation and environmental changes. As such, wild populations may be at risk, although the plant is cultivated widely in nurseries.
10. Cultural Significance:
    • Like many orchids, Cattleya amethystoglossa is prized for its ornamental value and is often grown in private collections, botanical gardens, and for commercial orchid cultivation. Its elegant flowers are also used in floral arrangements and for display at orchid shows.

In conclusion, Cattleya amethystoglossa is a stunning and relatively easy-to-grow species for orchid enthusiasts who provide the right care conditions. Its vibrant colors, beautiful form, and pleasant fragrance make it a standout in any collection.

End ChatGPT: