Cattleya amethystoglossa is in bloom now in the nursery.  This Brazilian native is a tall-growing member of the bifoliate Cattleya group of orchids.  The orchids pictured here have an average   height of 18-24 inches, and they are growing taller each year!   I can expect these orchids to achieve a final height of between 4 and 5 feet tall by the end of the next two growing seasons.

The clusters of 5-14 fragrant, 2-3 inch flowers are a happy and welcome break in the sometimes dark, cold mid winter season.

Aechmea recurvata var. benrathii is a rock dwelling species from Brazil.  The variety benrathii differs from the type plant in having compact stature and very dark purple leaf bases that give the plant the appearance of being black at the base.  the leaves have compact spines.

With the approach of flowering the entire top of the plant blushes from a light pink to vivid red depending on the clone.  Individual flowers have red petals and extend only slightly above the stiff  red floral bracts.

These plants grow best in strong to very strong light and can tolerate a considerable dry period.  They grow easily and rapidly into sizable clumps and bloom freely.

Epiphytic plants are best grown in fast draining media.  These plants thrive in conditions and media that allow their roots access to moisture and free flowing air.  In their natural habit these plants grow on top of branches and in the crocks of trees.  From this position high above the rainforest canopy epiphytes have the best access to sunlight and rain water or fog/mist.
Some media used in formulating epiphytic planting mixes are:
Fir bark,
Prelite,
charcoal,
treefern fiber,
coir,
and coco fiber chunks.
Fast drainage and the ability to hold moisture while allowing free air movement at the plants roots are the characteristics these media share.  Experimentation as well as some knowledge of what combinations other growers use is the key to successful growing.  Your formula must account for your individual growing conditions, your watering habits, and the number of plants you have in cultivation.