Boat orchid (Cymbidium) (Cymbidium)
Also known as: Boat orchid, Chinese ground orchid, Cymbidium
Boat orchids belong to the genus *Cymbidium*, which is native to Asia and Australia. The name *Cymbidium* is derived from the Greek word "kymbion," meaning "little boat" or "little bowl," a reference to the distinctive shape of the flowers' lips in many species.
In This Article
Attributes of Boat orchid (Cymbidium)
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Height
90 cm
Spread
45 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Flower Size
5-10 cm (2-4 inches)
Flower Color
Varies widely: white, green, yellow, pink, red, and combinations
Images of Boat orchid (Cymbidium)
Quickly Identify Boat orchid (Cymbidium)
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Cymbidium orchids can be identified by their long, narrow leaves and clusters of waxy flowers that range in color from white to green, yellow, pink, and red. They typically have a pseudo bulb at the base from which the leaves and flower spikes emerge.
Scientific Classification of Boat orchid (Cymbidium)
Phylum
Magnoliophyta
Class
Liliopsida
Order
Asparagales
Family
Orchidaceae
Genus
Cymbidium
Planting and Growing of Boat orchid (Cymbidium)
Care Difficulty
Moderate
Watering Schedule
Every 3 days
Sunlight Requirements
Partial sun
Sunshine Duration
8-12 hours
Ideal Temperature
60-75℉
Soil Type
Potting Mix, Peat Mix
Soil pH
5.5-6.5
Fertilizer Type
Balanced
Pruning Season
Spring, Summer
Pruning Area
Branches, Leaves
Pruning Frequency
2 times a year
Repotting Season
Spring
Pot Type
Plastic, Ceramic
How to Water Boat orchid (Cymbidium)?
For Cymbidium, it's crucial to aim for a watering regime that ensures the medium is moist but not soggy. Watering should be enough to moisten the entire root mass, which usually means about 150 ml per session.
What are the symptoms of an underwatered Boat orchid (Cymbidium)?
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What should I do if my Boat orchid (Cymbidium) is not getting enough water?
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What are the symptoms of an overwatered Boat orchid (Cymbidium)?
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How to save an overwatered Boat orchid (Cymbidium)?
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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Boat orchid (Cymbidium)?
Partial sun exposure, ideally 2-4 hours of light daily, enhances their growth by providing enough energy without overwhelming the plant.
What type of light does Cymbidium need?
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How can you provide the ideal light for Cymbidium?
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What are the benefits of ideal lighting for Cymbidium?
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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Boat orchid (Cymbidium)?
For optimal growth, Cymbidium orchids require day temperatures ranging from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature range ensures that the plant can photosynthesize efficiently while avoiding stress that might inhibit its growth.
What Soil is Best for Boat orchid (Cymbidium)?
Cymbidium orchids require soil that allows for excellent drainage. This prevents the roots from sitting in water, leading to root rot. Well-draining soil also helps provide sufficient aeration to the roots, a vital requirement for the healthy growth of these orchids. While good drainage is critical, Cymbidium orchids thrive best when their soil can retain an adequate amount of moisture. A soil mix containing peat or sphagnum moss can help in maintaining the right balance of moisture necessary for healthy blooms. The soil for Cymbidium orchids should be rich in organic matter to provide essential nutrients. They benefit from a fertile environment that supports frequent blooming and robust growth, making an enriched loam or sandy loam an ideal choice.
How to Fertilize Boat orchid (Cymbidium)?
For Cymbidium, a balanced fertilizer with equal N-P-K (e.g., 20-20-20) is suitable. Apply at half strength for liquid feeds and follow the package instructions for solid fertilizers. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root burn.
How to Prune Boat orchid (Cymbidium)?
Cymbidium orchids are sensitive to over-pruning, which can stunt their growth. Always trim sparingly, focusing only on parts that genuinely need it. After pruning, monitor your plant's health regularly. Look for any signs of stress, such as wilting or discolored leaves, which may indicate a need for further care. Wear gardening gloves to protect your hands from sharp tools and any sap that may cause skin irritation. This also helps in maintaining a firm grip during the pruning process.
How to Propagate Boat orchid (Cymbidium) plant?
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Choose a mature Cymbidium plant with healthy pseudobulbs for division. Avoid plants showing signs of disease or pests.
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Gently lift the plant from its pot and shake off excess soil. Use sterilized tools to cut and separate the rhizomes, ensuring each section has at least three pseudobulbs.
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Plant the divided sections into individual pots filled with fresh orchid mix. Ensure that the pseudobulbs are slightly above the potting medium surface.
How to Repot Boat orchid (Cymbidium) plant?
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Cymbidium orchids should be repotted when they have outgrown their pots or when the potting mix has degraded significantly. A sign that they need repotting is roots growing out of drainage holes or a noticeable decline in growth and flowering.
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Select a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Cymbidiums prefer snug spaces, as this encourages blooming. Choose a pot with multiple drainage holes to allow excess moisture to escape, preventing root rot and promoting healthy growth.
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Use a free-draining orchid mix specifically designed for Cymbidiums. These mixes often contain bark, perlite, and charcoal, which allow for excellent aeration around the roots, mimicking their natural terrestrial habitat and ensuring healthy plant development.
