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Boat orchid

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Boat orchid

  • Common Name: Boat orchid
  • Scientific Name: Cymbidium spp.
  • Family Name: Orchidaceae
  • Origin: Tropical Asia
  • Height: Varies by species – usually 1 to 4 ft
  • Width: Varies by species – usually 0.75 to 3 ft
  • Growth: Slow
  • Zone: USDA Zones 10 through 12
  • Light needs: Bright, indirect light
  • Salt tolerance: Low
  • Soil/pH/Texture: Plants of this genus may be either epiphytic or terrestrial. Soil should be a bark-based orchid medium with good drainage. Epiphytic plants should be perched on tree branches and trunks.
  • Moisture: Cymbidiums require ample water and need to be in a high-humidity environment.
  • Drought tolerance: Low
  • Pests/Diseases: No major pests or diseases.
  • Growing conditions: Cymbidium orchids have specific requirements, needing to be grown in a cool area with bright, indirect light. Therefore, it is a good idea to cultivate this plant indoors if outdoor temperatures are very high (above 85 degrees F). Ensure that the air humidity is at least 50% so that the plant remains moist, but not soggy. Night temperatures of 30 degrees F are required for flower initiation.
  • Characteristics: Though appearances differ between species, Cymbidium orchids generally have thick, tubular roots and long, leathery leaves which grow close to the base of the plant. These orchids also have pseudobulbs (thickened storage organs) which show up as a swollen area near the base of the plant. Flowers emerge on spikes in groups of around 10, though some species have singular flowers. Flowers differ from species to species in both color and shape, though most have five petals and a three-lobed labellum. Flowers are long-lived for orchids, lasting up to 10 weeks.
  • Propagation: By division.
  • Wildlife: Some species of bees are attracted to the flowers.
  • Facts: There are about fifty-five Cymbidium species, some of which hybridize with each other. The common name “Boat Orchid” is a reference to the shape of the labellum on some species.
  • Designer considerations: It is a great accent for tree branches and trunks, especially since its flowers last quite a while.