The key to the culture of these plants is tied to their need for high light levels, cool nights, high humidity, and a fast drying airy medium for their dry loving roots. The Podalaelia Section comprises the Mexican laelias, such as anceps, albida, autumnalis , and rubescens . Many of these species come from the Monsoonal Foothill Rainforest habitat , which is subject to the summer monsoon, warm humid summers when the main growth occurs, and cool dry winters when they rest. A number come from the higher altitudes, and are therefore cooler growing .- species such as anceps, albida, autumnalis. Culturally they come from the foothill mountain habitat , and that information can be usefully referred to.
Different species require cool to intermediate conditions.
They are equipped with quite heavy leathery leaves, confirming that they can stand quite dry conditions. It can be noted that over-watering i.e. watering too frequently, especially during the winter months, is the main cause of their death in our glasshouses. The final laelia Section Calolaelia contains plants now generally listed separately as schomburgkia .