
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Cymbidium spp.
One of Japan's most popular orchids. Grand flower sprays lasting weeks. Notably cold-hardy. Grow outdoors in direct sun spring-fall; summer heat initiates flower buds.
Cymbidium, commonly known as boat orchids, is a genus of evergreen flowering plants in the orchid family Orchidaceae. Orchids in this genus are epiphytic, lithophytic, terrestrial or rarely leafless saprophytic herbs usually with pseudobulbs. There are usually between three and twelve leaves arranged in two ranks on each pseudobulb or shoot and lasting for several years. From one to a large number of flowers are arranged on an unbranched flowering stem arising from the base of the pseudobulb. The sepals and petals are all free from and similar to each other. The labellum is significantly different from the other petals and the sepals and has three lobes. There are about fifty-five species and sixteen further natural hybrids occurring in the wild from tropical and subtropical Asia to Australia. Cymbidiums are well known in horticulture and many cultivars have been developed. The genome of Cymbidium mannii has been sequenced to study epiphytism and crassulacean acid metabolism.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Origin
tropical and subtropical Asia to Australia, from the Himalayas and southern China through Japan and Southeast Asia
Lifespan
20+ years
Size
30-80cm (including spike)
Temperature
5〜30℃(適温15〜25℃)
Humidity
50〜70%
Slow-release every 2 months spring-fall + liquid biweekly
Outdoors in partial to full sun spring-fall. Bright indoors in winter
Summer heat and autumn temperature fluctuations trigger bud formation
Keep old pseudobulbs 2-3 years. They nourish younger growths
Timing of bringing indoors in fall is critical. Too early stunts flower buds
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Cymbidium is 5〜30℃(適温15〜25℃). Recommended humidity is 50〜70%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Cymbidium is 20+ years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Cymbidium typically reaches 30-80cm (including spike) as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Cymbidium feeds on: Slow-release every 2 months spring-fall + liquid biweekly. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Cymbidium varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Find listings for this species
Browse Orchid ListingsCymbidium Outdoor Growing Guide: Cold-Hardy Orchids for the Garden
Cymbidium outdoor growing: placement, summer shading, winter protection, autumn cooling for flower spikes, and large plant division.
Complete Cymbidium Growing Guide — How to Achieve Abundant Blooms Every Year
How to grow Cymbidium orchids in Japan: autumn outdoor management, cold treatment for flower spike formation, post-bloom care, and annual cultivation tips.
Complete Beginner's Guide to Orchid Growing
Everything beginners need to start growing orchids: placement, watering, fertilizing, repotting, blooming tips, and recommended starter species.
Orchid Encyclopedia — Popular Species & Care Guide
An encyclopedia of popular orchid species with blooming conditions, care difficulty, and fragrance for each.