'Cattleya' is sometimes known as False Spirea. The bright, rose-colored plumes sit on top of dark green, mounded fern-like foliage. The leaves emerge tinged with red but mature to dark green. The thick, fluffy panicles are comprised of tiny, densely packed flowers that bloom in mid-summer. The tall, upright stems stand 3 feet high.

'Cattleya' does best in consistently moist areas with shade to partial shade where it adds a welcome touch of color to a shady garden. It is generally pest-free and tough, and is resistant to rabbits and deer. It is attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds. This is an excellent cut flower. After the blooms have died, the stalks with the dried seed heads are often left in place for winter interest.