Cymbidium Finlaysonianum

Description

The Cymbidium Finlaysonianum, commonly known as the Finlayson’s cymbidium, is a species of orchid that belongs to the family Orchidaceae. It is native to South East Asia, specifically Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam. This orchid was named in honor of George Finlayson, a Scottish surgeon and naturalist who discovered the plant in Thailand during the 19th century.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Cymbidium Finlaysonianum has a royal appearance due to its large, showy flowers that can grow up to 10 cm in diameter. It has six petals, with the two upper petals being broader and more elaborately marked than the others. The colors of the petals can vary from pure white to deep magenta, with the lip being a contrasting color. The leaves are long and strap-shaped, growing up to 60 cm in length. They are dark green in color and have a leathery texture.

Care Guide

The Cymbidium Finlaysonianum is relatively easy to care for and can thrive in different environments. Here are some care tips:

Water

Water the plant regularly, but make sure that the potting mix is well-draining to prevent waterlogging. During the growing season, water the plant once a week. Reduce watering during the winter months.

Fertilization

Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer. Reduce fertilization during the winter months.

Soil

Use a well-draining potting mix that contains bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite. Repot the plant every two years to ensure that it has enough space to grow.

Sunlight

Place the plant in a location where it can receive bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight as this can burn the leaves.

Hardiness Zones

The Cymbidium Finlaysonianum can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but prefers cooler temperatures between 15-25°C. It can grow in hardiness zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Cymbidium Finlaysonianum is susceptible to a few pests and diseases:

Pests

• Mealybugs
• Scale insects
• Spider mites

Diseases

• Black rot
• Crown rot
• Fungal leaf spot

To prevent these issues, make sure that the plant has good air circulation, is not overwatered, and is kept in a clean environment.

Habitat

The Cymbidium Finlaysonianum is native to South East Asia, where it grows in tropical forests, on rocks, and in moist areas. It can be found at elevations of up to 1500 meters.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I fertilize my Cymbidium Finlaysonianum?

A: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer. Reduce fertilization during the winter months.

Q: What is the ideal temperature range for the Cymbidium Finlaysonianum?

A: The Cymbidium Finlaysonianum can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but prefers cooler temperatures between 15-25°C.

Q: How often should I water my Cymbidium Finlaysonianum?

A: Water the plant regularly, but make sure that the potting mix is well-draining to prevent waterlogging. During the growing season, water the plant once a week. Reduce watering during the winter months.

Q: What is the size of the Cymbidium Finlaysonianum’s flowers?

A: The Cymbidium Finlaysonianum has large, showy flowers that can grow up to 10 cm in diameter.

Related Plants

• Cymbidium dayanum
• Cymbidium ensifolium
• Cymbidium goeringii
• Cymbidium lowianum

References

• World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. (2021). Cymbidium finlaysonianum. Retrieved from http://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=53115
• Royal Horticultural Society. (2021). Cymbidium finlaysonianum. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/6198/cymbidium-finlaysonianum/details
• Orchid Society of Great Britain. (2021). Cymbidium finlaysonianum. Retrieved from https://www.osgb.org.uk/cymbidium-finlaysonianum/