Boat Orchid Cymbidium

Cymbidium is a genus of plants that is a member of the orchid family (Orchidaceae) and has 88 accepted species. These plants are native to Tropical and Subtropical Asia and Australia. They are commonly known as the boat orchid, and they grow from 1 to 4 feet tall and 1 to 3 feet wide. They are among the most popular orchids, and most of their flowers are fragrant, showy, and frequently used as cut flowers and corsages. The blooms may be white, green, orange, pink, or yellow. The genus name, Cymbidium, is derived from the Latin word, cymba, that means "boat" and refers to the shape of the flower's lip.

Cymbidiums are divided into three groups:

• Large-flowered cymbidiums or Standard: need cooler temperatures, have large flowers that are 4 to 5 inches wide, bloom in winter and early spring
• Miniature tropical and subtropical cymbidiums: require warm temperatures, bloom in the summer, native to India, Southern China, Malaysia, and Australia, the flowers are smaller and about half the size of the standard cymbidium
• Miniature temperate cymbidiums:  need cool and moist climates, native to Japan, China, and the Himalayas, small flowers about half the size of the standard cymbidium

Boat orchids require bright, indirect sunlight especially during their growing season to encourage blooming. It is best to use a commercial orchid potting medium that is specifically labeled for cymbidiums. This plant needs to be watered heavily during its growing season, but reduce watering in the fall. Use lukewarm water and be sure that the potting mix is moist and well-drained. The humidity level should be between 40 to 60%. The required temperature is dependent upon the type of cymbidium.  In the summer, the large-flower group needs a daytime temperature of 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit and nighttime temperature of 50 to 60 degrees to insure flowering. Miniature cymbidiums are more heat tolerant with a temperature 5 to 10 degrees higher. These plants need a 25 degree day/night temperature difference to encourage blooming. Fertilize these plants every 1 to 2 weeks with a high nitrogen orchid fertilizer during the growing season. Division is the recommended propagation method. 

Boat orchids are epiphytes (grow on trees), lithophyte (grow on rocks), or semi-terrestrial (grow in the ground). They have pseudobulbs and fleshy white roots. The leaves are evergreen, arching, long, narrow, linear, strap-like, and a vibrant green. The flowers appear on spikes and are usually in groups of 6 to 12 blooms. The flowers have three sepals and two petals that are similar in shape and color. The labellum or 3-lobed lip is compact, prominent, and has patterned design in a deeper color.

Cymbidium orchids are popular with florists because of the beautiful sprays of long lasting blooms. If you are interested in becoming an orchid collector, the cymbidium orchid as a houseplant is a good place to start. They require a moderate amount of maintenance, but the pay off will be worth the effort.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Monitor for aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. Overwatering or soggy soil can cause root rot. Brown spots may occur from inadequate watering or may be caused by viral infections such as the cymbidium mosaic virus.. Direct sunlight can cause foliage sunburn. Wet leaves and poor air circulation can cause fungal diseases.