Introduction of Cymbidium
The large-flowered Cymbidium, “大花蕙蘭” in Chinese, also known as the East Asian orchid or tiger-head orchid, is a species in the orchid family. A single large-flowered Cymbidium plant can produce multiple blooms, with upright flower spikes arranged from bottom to top. The flowers are large and grow in clusters, with thick, fleshy petals.
Colors and Characteristics of Cymbidium
In Greek, the name for this orchid means “boat”, likely because its lip petal resembles a boat shape with a curved arch. The large-flowered Cymbidium is also called the “tiger-head orchid”, a name that may come from the tiger-like stripes often found on its lip petal. Additionally, since this orchid is native to Japan, it is sometimes referred to as the East Asian orchid.
The flower colors of the large-flowered Cymbidium are quite varied within the Cymbidium genus. Common colors include pink, green, and white, while orange, brown, or variegated varieties occasionally appear. The flowers grow in clusters, with each spike bearing 10 to 30 blooms, creating a rich and striking visual effect, making it a highly ornamental orchid. There are also miniature varieties of the large-flowered Cymbidium, which feel more delicate, elegant, and vibrant.
Application of Cymbidium
In floral design, the entire spike can be used, but often the flowers are separated and used individually depending on the need.
Cares of Cymbidium
Additionally, these orchids are very clean; during care, you will notice that even if the water is not changed for a long time, the water in the vase remains clear as when first filled.
When purchasing, most cut large-flowered Cymbidiums are in full bloom. Do not mistakenly think that fully bloomed large-flowered Cymbidiums have a short viewing period; this is their normal state. In fact, fully bloomed large-flowered Cymbidiums have a longer vase life than typical cut flowers, lasting more than 10 days.
