Flower of the Month – June 2020

Cymbidium Orchid

Family:  Orchidaceae Genus: Cymbidium

Origin: China

Availability:  Winter/Spring

Colours: White, pink, burgundy, yellow, orange, green, purple

AKA: Boat Orchid, Cymbid

What’s in a name: The name Cymbidium is inspired by the flowers beautiful shape with links to the Greek “kymbÄ“” meaning cup or the Latin “cymba” referring to a boat.

Why we love it: The orchid family is lush with incredible beauty and a deep history stemming back to 551BC and beyond. Amongst the thousands of species of orchids, the cymbidium is a superstar with incredibly large blooms and a vase-life like no other! It’s possible to enjoy these beautiful stems for up to 8 weeks and the colour range is vast and varied. They are also easily grown in gardens throughout Australia.

How to get the most out of them: Cymbidium orchids are an absolute winner and need little care:

1. Purchase firm, opaque flowers that are mostly open.
2. Recut stems with sharp secateurs.
3. Add preservative to the water to promote longevity and help buds open.
4. Refresh water and preservative daily.
5. Mist regularly to create a humid environment.
6. Cymbidiums are very sensitive to ethylene gas sources such as cigarette smoke, fruit and car fumes.