Overview
Cymbidium simulans is a clump-forming conservatory greenhouse in the genus Cymbidium, part of the Orchidaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Cymbidium simulans 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 aloifolium, the aloe-leafed cymbidium, is a species of orchid found in Asia, especially China and southeast Asia from Burma to Sumatra. It can be found growing between rocks or on another plant. The word cymbidium comes from the Greek kumbos meaning "hole, cavity" and the Latin specific name is just a translation of the English "aloe-leafed". Grow it in full sun and loam soil. In UK gardens it needs subtropical warmth and glass protection in the UK (RHS H1b). It works well for 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 aloifolium
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 simulans 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 simulans
- 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 simulans?
Cymbidium simulans prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Cymbidium simulans need?
Cymbidium simulans grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Cymbidium simulans hardy in the UK?
Cymbidium simulans 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 simulans?
Division.
More in the Cymbidium genus
- Cymbidium canaliculatum

- Cymbidium ensifolium 'Tehku Susin'

- Cymbidium madidum

- Cymbidium pendulumdrooping boat orchid

- Cymbidium pumilum 'Orchidhurst'

- Cymbidium 'Ice Antarctic'
- Cymbidium Aton gx 'Westonbirt'
- Cymbidium Dorchester gx 'Saleden'