Question regarding Cattleya Terminology

[peeweelovesbooks]

Ok.

It seems that I've really gotten into catts for some reason. I've been buying some beauties on ebay, but I'm confused as to the terminology regarding the descriptions.

What is exactly a lead versus a growth? How do you determine whether the plant is specimen sized or not? For catts, is it better to buy taller plants or fatter plants? What's the difference between "in sheath" versus "in bud."

I bought a Blc. Arabesque "Golden Zebra" in July and the description said not in sheath or in bud, but when I got it it looked like it had sheaths. It's blooming right now and I think it's going to have like 9 flowers at least. So I'm confused!!

Any help would be appreciated.