About Cymbidium Orchids

Also known as boat orchids, the Cymbidium genus (Cymbidium spp.) consists of 52 species of evergreen orchids native to tropical and subtropical regions throughout Asia and northern Australia. Cymbidium orchids tend to be more cold hardy than most other species of orchids. They are frequently grown as houseplants and used in corsages and fresh flower arrangements.

Appearance

• Cymbidium orchids have thick-petaled, waxy flowers that may be 1 to 5 inches in diameter depending on species. The flower is available in every color except for true red and blue. Cymbidium orchids have short, thickened stems and arching, strap-like leaves. Species include the compact ivory-colored cymbidium (Cymbidium eburneum), a white flowered native of China, and the darkly colored, multi-flowered Queensland black orchid (Cymbidium canaliculatum). Cymbidium orchids bloom only once a year.

Location

• Cymbidium orchids require filtered sunlight throughout the fall, summer and spring. Healthy plants have golden-green foliage, while plants receiving too little sunlight have dark green leaves. Plants with too much sunlight may have wilted brown or yellow leaves. Cymbidium orchids are tolerant of a range of temperatures and can handle lows down to 29 degrees Fahrenheit and highs up to 100 degrees for a short period of time. Mist flowers in extreme heat to cool the plant.

Soil

• Cymbidium orchids require a well-draining, acidic growing medium. Materials such as bark pieces, perlite, coarse charcoal and redwood compost work well. Adding sphagnum moss or coarse peat moss to the mixture helps to increase water retention. The potting mixture must be moistened before planting. Water regularly with clean, pure water during the warmer growing months. Regular watering helps to leach out damaging salts from the soil. Keep plants somewhat dry during the winter, but not completely bone dry.

Problems

• Though largely pest-free, cymbidium orchids may fall prey to spider mites, scale and aphids. Check regularly for pests and use a miticide or insecticide if necessary. Black rot, a root rot and pseudobulb disease, may occur in plants that are grown in poorly draining, waterlogged soils. Reduce watering and steam or chemically treat the soil. Small black or brown spots may occur on flowers if they are splashed with water. Take care to keep water off foliage and flowers in the future.