[1] Laelia species are found in areas of subtropical or temperate climate in Central and South America, but mostly in Mexico.

[2][4] Species of Laelia can be found from western Mexico south to Bolivia, from sea level to mountain forests.

[2] Laelia is one of the orchid genera known to use crassulacean acid metabolism photosynthesis,[citation needed] which reduces evapotranspiration during daylight because carbon dioxide is collected at night.

[2] If grown mounted they definitely need approximately 50–70% humidity, while cooler temperatures increase the blooming process.

[2] Hybrids of Laelia with other orchid genera are placed in the following nothogenera (this list is incomplete): Rhyncholaelia is a distinct genus rather than a nothogenus.