Great as a gift 🌸
Florida Butterfly Orchid
Encyclia tampensis · Orchidaceae
How it looks
Florida Butterfly Orchid (Encyclia) bears star-shaped yellow-and-purple flowers in clusters along slender branched flower stalks. The white-to-pink lip petal at the center of each flower looks like a butterfly. The leaves are thick, narrow, and leathery, and the plant stands 12–20 in (30–50 cm) tall.
This orchid is listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA. Both potted plants and cut flowers are safe to have around.
Guide for parents
Most orchids are a safe plant group for cats. Their long, elegant blooms make them popular decor, but checking the exact scientific name before bringing one home matters. The thick, firm leaves don't invite much chewing, but while it's in bloom, make a habit of picking up fallen petals the same day. Use a low-concentration plant fertilizer, and right after feeding, keep your cat away from the pot area briefly so they don't lick around it. Watering schedules vary by orchid species, so note the species name at purchase and look up its care.
Details
- Scientific name
- Encyclia tampensis
- Common name
- Florida Butterfly Orchid
- Family
- Orchidaceae
- Source
- ASPCA
Also known as
Related plants
Same plant family· Orchidaceae
Other safe flowers
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