Contents
Description
Cymbidium Hookerianum is a stunning orchid species native to the Himalayas, India, and Southeast Asia. It is a monopodial epiphyte that can grow up to 2 meters tall and produce up to 30 fragrant flowers on a single inflorescence. The flowers are typically yellow-green with a white lip and a red or pink throat. The plant’s foliage is evergreen and long, narrow, and leathery. Cymbidium Hookerianum is a popular choice among orchid enthusiasts due to its striking appearance and ease of cultivation.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Cymbidium |
| Species: | Hookerianum |
Appearance
Cymbidium Hookerianum is an impressive orchid species that can grow up to 2 meters tall. Its foliage is evergreen, long, narrow, and leathery. The flowers are typically yellow-green with a white lip and a red or pink throat. The plant’s inflorescence can produce up to 30 fragrant flowers, making it an excellent choice for indoor or outdoor decoration. Overall, Cymbidium Hookerianum is a gorgeous orchid species that can add a touch of elegance and beauty to any garden or home.
Care Guide
Cymbidium Hookerianum is a relatively easy orchid species to care for. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:
- Water: Orchids like to be moist but not overly wet. Water your Cymbidium Hookerianum once a week and allow the soil to dry slightly in between waterings.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your orchid once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength.
- Soil: Cymbidium Hookerianum prefers well-draining soil with good aeration. Use a mix of orchid bark, perlite, and peat moss for optimal results.
- Sunlight: This orchid species prefers bright but filtered light. Place it in a spot with indirect sunlight or use a sheer curtain to filter the light.
- Hardiness Zones: Cymbidium Hookerianum is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cymbidium Hookerianum is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by the following:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause discoloration and webbing on the plant. Spray your orchid with neem oil or insecticidal soap to control spider mites.
- Scale insects: These pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the plant. Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove scale insects from your orchid.
- Root rot: Overwatering can cause root rot, which can eventually kill your orchid. Make sure to water your plant only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Habitat
Cymbidium Hookerianum is native to the Himalayas, India, and Southeast Asia. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and rocky slopes. This orchid species prefers warm temperatures and high humidity, making it an ideal choice for tropical and subtropical climates.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cymbidium Hookerianum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Cymbidium Hookerianum can be grown indoors as long as it has access to bright, filtered light and proper care.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Cymbidium Hookerianum?
A: Fertilize your orchid once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Q: What should I do if my Cymbidium Hookerianum has root rot?
A: If your orchid has root rot, you should remove the affected roots and repot it in fresh, well-draining soil. Water it only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Q: How do I propagate Cymbidium Hookerianum?
A: Cymbidium Hookerianum can be propagated through division. Wait until the plant has finished flowering and remove it from its pot. Gently separate the plant into smaller sections, making sure each section has at least 3-4 pseudobulbs. Repot each section in fresh soil and water it sparingly until new growth appears.
Related Plants
- Cymbidium ensifolium
- Cymbidium lowianum
- Cymbidium aloifolium
- Cymbidium finlaysonianum
References
- “Cymbidium Hookerianum.” Royal Horticultural Society, https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/4512/cymbidium-hookerianum/details. Accessed 10 Feb. 2022.
- “Cymbidium Hookerianum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=299193&isprofile=0&. Accessed 10 Feb. 2022.
- “Cymbidium Hookerianum.” Orchid Society of Great Britain, https://www.osgb.org.uk/cymbidium-hookerianum/. Accessed 10 Feb. 2022.
