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Description
Cymbidium Lowianum is a species of orchid that is native to the high-elevation forests of the Himalayas, Myanmar, and Thailand. It is a large, robust plant that produces long-lasting flowers in the winter and spring seasons. The flowers are fragrant and come in a range of colors, including white, pink, yellow, and green. Cymbidium Lowianum is a popular choice for orchid enthusiasts due to its ease of cultivation and impressive floral displays.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Cymbidium |
Appearance
Cymbidium Lowianum can grow up to 60 cm tall and 45 cm wide. It has long, strap-like leaves that can be up to 90 cm long and 5 cm wide. The flowers are borne on long, upright spikes that can grow up to 90 cm long. Each spike can bear up to 20 flowers, which are 5-10 cm wide. The sepals and petals are similar in appearance and are often broad and rounded. The lip of the flower is often frilled and can be a different color than the rest of the flower.
Care Guide
Cymbidium Lowianum is a relatively easy orchid to care for, but it does have specific requirements. Here are some care tips:Water: Water regularly during the growing season, but allow the potting mix to dry out slightly before watering again. Reduce watering during the winter months.Fertilization: Fertilize during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer every two to four weeks.Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a mixture of orchid bark, perlite, and peat moss.Sunlight: Cymbidium Lowianum prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.Hardiness Zones: Cymbidium Lowianum is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cymbidium Lowianum can be susceptible to pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help prevent infestations. Common diseases include root rot, bacterial soft rot, and fungal leaf spot. Proper watering practices and good air circulation can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
Cymbidium Lowianum is native to the high-elevation forests of the Himalayas, Myanmar, and Thailand. It grows in cool, moist environments, often attached to trees or rocks. It is an epiphytic orchid, which means it grows on other plants but does not take nutrients from them.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Cymbidium Lowianum?
A: Water regularly during the growing season, but allow the potting mix to dry out slightly before watering again. Reduce watering during the winter months.Q: Can Cymbidium Lowianum tolerate direct sunlight?
A: No, it prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.Q: What should I do if I notice pests on my Cymbidium Lowianum?
A: Regular inspection and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help prevent infestations.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Cymbidium Lowianum?
A: Cymbidium Lowianum is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
Other species of Cymbidium include:
- Cymbidium aloifolium
- Cymbidium bicolor
- Cymbidium elegans
- Cymbidium ensifolium
- Cymbidium faberi
References
- “Cymbidium lowianum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 27, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b633.
- “Cymbidium lowianum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 27, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/4532/cymbidium-lowianum/details.
- “Cymbidium lowianum.” Smithsonian Gardens. Accessed September 27, 2021. https://www.gardens.si.edu/horticulture/orchid-collection/cymbidium-lowianum.html.
