Overview
Cymbidium madidum is a clump-forming conservatory greenhouse in the genus Cymbidium, part of the Orchidaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Cymbidium madidum grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1b. Suggested uses include houseplants, conservatories and greenhouses.
About
Cymbidium madidum, commonly known as giant boat-lip orchid, is a plant in the orchid family and is endemic to north-eastern Australia. It is a clump-forming epiphyte or lithophyte with crowded pseudobulbs, each with between four and eight flat, strap-shaped, thin leaves and up to seventy olive green flowers with the sepals and petals curving forwards. It is found in moist habitats in eastern Queensland and north-eastern New South Wales. In the garden it prefers full sun and loam soil. In UK gardens it needs subtropical warmth and glass protection in the UK (RHS H1b). Suggested uses include houseplants, conservatories and greenhouses. It tolerates neutral soils, well-drained conditions and south-facing aspects. Grow in bark-based orchid compost. Cool to intermediate (7-24�C). Bright light but not direct midday sun. Summer outdoors in shade.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Cymbidium madidum
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Cymbidium
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1b
Plant details
Cymbidium madidum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Conservatory Greenhouse
- Habit
- Clump-forming
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Houseplants, Conservatories, Greenhouses
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Cymbidium madidum
- Propagation
- Division
- Pest resistance
- Aphids, Red spider mite, Scale insects, Mealybugs
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Cymbidium madidum?
Cymbidium madidum prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Cymbidium madidum need?
Cymbidium madidum grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Cymbidium madidum hardy in the UK?
Cymbidium madidum has an RHS hardiness rating of H1b, meaning it needs subtropical warmth of 10–15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Cymbidium madidum?
Division.
More in the Cymbidium genus
- Cymbidium canaliculatum
- Cymbidium ensifolium 'Tehku Susin'
- Cymbidium pendulumdrooping boat orchid
- Cymbidium pumilum 'Orchidhurst'
- Cymbidium simulans
- Cymbidium 'Ice Antarctic'
- Cymbidium Aton gx 'Westonbirt'
- Cymbidium Dorchester gx 'Saleden'