Cymbidium Orchids originate from higher aleavation between 3500-9000 feet. These plants may survive in coastal areas but that is not their original growing space.
There are 50- species of Cymbidium and possibly 15-20 naturally ocurring hybrids. Of course there are many hundreds of orchid hybrids and Cymbidium are not an exception.
Different form other orchids in that cymbidium are grown in soil and have short bulblike stems.
- Core Identification & Taxonomy
- Scientific Name: Cybidium
- Common Name: Boat orchid, Ground orchid
- Family: Orchidaceae
- Varietals: hundreds of hybrids
- Habitat/Range: Tropical ad SubTropical regions. Primarily found in Asia but also in northern Australia
- Morphology & Characteristics
- Growth Habit: Epiphytic (grows on surface of another plant), or even Terrestrial which just mean s the roots grow under soil
- Leaves: Waxy evergreen
- Flowers: Generally white to pale yellow then to green, maroon, pink and bronze. Flowers can persist for several months.
- Propagation: When mature it is best to split the bulb root structure to propagate. Do this in Spring
- Notes
- Sun Exposure: Indirect light only. Limited early morning light may be ok.
- Water: Enjoys weekly water baths for 5-10 minutes. High humidity 70-80%, In winter keep barely moist.
- Fertilizer:Mild orchid fertilizer is best. void high nitrogen fertilizers.
- Growing approach: Since they can live for up to 20 years, provide them with basic conditions and you should have plants to spread around for years.