Ploidy Levels and Uses of Laelia anceps Complex in Breeding Cattleya-type Orchids

The Laelia anceps complex currently comprises of three distinct genotypes distributed in southern Mexico and a portion of Guatemala. Traditionally, two subspecies of L. anceps were recognized (L. anceps ssp. anceps and L. anceps ssp. dawsonii) but now both are considered distinct at least for registration purposes. The third species L. mottae was recently described for the Guatemalan population while not recognized by the Royal Horticulture Society. L. anceps complex and its closely related Mexican Laelia species such L. albida, L. gouldiana and L. rubescens have been used in Cattleya breeding to some extent to impart cold hardiness. Results from this type of breeding is generally favorable despite very long inflorescences, smaller flowers and shorter flower lives. Further attempt to improve Cattleya type orchids with L. anceps complex or its hybrids is sometimes hampered by the existence of different ploidy levels among L. anceps complex. Additionally, orchid growers have been improving L. anceps complex by breeding with notable clones such as ‘Mendenhall’ and ‘SanBar Marble King’ so that improved strains can be further used for breeding without knowing ploidy or realizing the true identity of clones used. In this presentation, three species of L. anceps will be described using examples of prominent clones. Furthermore, results from flow cytometric analyses will be presented to identify polyploid clones of L. anceps complex.