About
Cymbidium erythraeum is a species cymbidium from the Himalayas producing strap-shaped leaves and arching spikes of fragrant flowers in pale green or yellowish with red-striped lips. A rewarding and fragrant species cymbidium for a cool to intermediate heated greenhouse.
About the genus
Cymbidium, the boat orchids, are epiphytic, lithophytic and terrestrial orchids producing prominent pseudobulbs, strap-shaped leaves and arching, many-flowered spikes of long-lasting blooms in a wide range of colours including white, yellow, green, pink, red and brown. Among the most popular and widely grown of all orchid genera.
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil pHNeutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1C
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse
HabitClump forming
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesHouseplants, Patio and container plants
Native toIndochina
ToxicitySkin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationGrow in an open, free-draining orchid compost with addition of perlite, sphagnum moss or coir. Requires day temperatures around 16°C and 10°C at night. Provide good light levels, but avoid direct sunlight. Water plants thoroughly when compost is almost dry, allow to drain and use orchid fertiliser regularly during growing season. Reduce watering in winter. Place outside in dappled shade during the summer months to aid flower initiation. See cymbidium cultivation for more detailed information
PruningNo pruning required. Cut down flowered stems to base
PropagationPropagation by seed is only possible in a controlled laboratory environment. Mature plants may be divided in early or mid spring, when the plant overgrows its container. Each division should have at least 3 older pseudobulbs with a sufficient amount of stored energy and water, to support new growth and reduce stress after repotting
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, glasshouse red spider mite, scale insects and mealybugs
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free. Sterilising cutting tools may prevent virus diseases, such as Cymbidium Mosaic Virus (CMV)