Varieties of the Cymbidium Orchid Cut Flower

Cymbidium orchid varieties are prized as long-lasting cut flowers for their beauty and variety of shape and color. The genus cymbidium is one of 52 evergreen species in the orchidaceae family, and there are many cultivars within it. Commercially available cymbidiums are most often hybrids of several species. Single-species cymbidiums are rare but can be seen in botanical gardens. Cymbidium orchids grow well in warm, temperate climates but also adapt to cooler temperatures. They are easy to grow and there are many varieties to choose from.

Cymbidium Parishii

• White flowers with dark red mottled blotching on its lower petal distinguish this moderately large cymbidium variety. Its flowers are 2 1/2 to 3 inches across on long, arching stems. All cymbidiums have thick, waxy petals that account for their long-lasting flowers. They perform best in high but indirect sunlight and are well-suited to the protection of a large tree canopy. Household temperatures between 65 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit are ideal, although cymbidiums are able to withstand short periods of cold without damage.

Cymbidium Lowianum

• Cymbidium lowianum is a variety often used in cultivation of hybrids. It is a moderate-sized plant with arching spikes that carry 15 to 18 flowers. Its flowers have medium green petals and sepals, often with a bronze overlay. The larger lower petal known as the labellum is white with a bright red V-shape. Cymbidiums are grown in a pot filled with chips of bark, stones, tree fern fiber or some other loosely packed material that allows the roots to be well-aerated. Their roots rot and die in normal potting soil.

Cymbidium Bicolor

• This hybrid cymbidium species is native to Sri Lanka and southern India. It flowers January to March with 1- to 3-inch maroon and white striped, fruity-scented flowers. There are between five and 26 flowers to a stalk. Its leaves are thick and rigid and its natural habitat is a hollowed-out tree trunk. To grow this cymbidium at home, its temperature drop at night must be at least 10 degrees, especially in fall and winter when it is beginning to bud. Orchids need the humid conditions provided by a tray of pebbles and regular misting with a hand-held sprayer.

Cymbidium Canaliculatum

• There are several color variations within this orchid species variety. Its color varies from green to dark brown and nearly black; some types are mottled. It is native to western Australia but available from orchid specialists. The canaliculatum variety has thick leaves and its native habitat is in open spaces. The dark-colored flowers grow 13 to 60 per stem, depending on the size of each bloom. Cymbidiums need at least six hours of light per day. They do well in a south- or east-facing window in cold winters and outside under a tree during summer.