Devonian Cymbidium
cymbidium devonianum
Also known as: ["Devonian Orchid"]
Overview
A species of orchid native to Southeast Asia, known for its elegant flowers and slender pseudobulbs.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Cymbidium |
| Botanical Name: | Cymbidium devonianum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, indirect light or shaded outdoor area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry indoor environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Orchid bark mix with perlite, charcoal, and some sphagnum moss for moisture retention.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering or when dead/damaged foliage is present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing only non-viable parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; can tolerate morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon rays, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoor plants to shaded spots during peak heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade with bright, indirect light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; avoid direct midday sun; provide dappled light in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 2–3 weeks in winter
Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; ensure thorough watering reaches the root zone; avoid waterlogging by allowing excess to drain.
Soil
well-draining orchid mix with bark and perlite
pH: Slightly acidic (5.5–6.5).
Use orchid-specific mix; avoid heavy garden soils; refresh medium every 2–3 years.
Temperature
Prefers 50–75°F (10–24°C); cooler nights (50–60°F) in winter promote blooming; avoid extreme fluctuations.
Keep away from drafty areas; maintain consistent temperatures; provide cooler conditions at night for blooming.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth (spring to fall) with a balanced orchid fertilizer, none in winter
Flush soil periodically to prevent salt buildup; fertilize after watering to avoid root burn; adjust frequency based on growth phase.
Propagation
Methods
Division of pseudobulbs during repotting; mature plants can be split into smaller clumps with at least 3–4 pseudobulbs each.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide mature plant.
- Sterilize cuts.
- Pot divisions in fresh medium.
- Water lightly.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing and after flowering.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F), humid (50–70%), and bright indirect light with gentle air circulation.
Medium
Orchid mix (bark, perlite, charcoal) with good aeration and drainage.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; rooting hormone may help if using stem cuttings (less common).
Timeline
New growth may appear within 4–6 weeks; full establishment takes 6–12 months.
Tools Needed
Sterilized knife or shears, orchid mix, pots, humidity dome or plastic bag.
Quick Tips
Ensure each division has healthy roots; keep divisions stable in pots; avoid overwatering new divisions.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower spikes at the base; trim leaves just above the node or base.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower spikes and dead or yellowing leaves to maintain plant health and aesthetics.
Tools
Sterilized pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut dead/damaged parts; avoid over-pruning; clean debris from pot.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, just before the start of the growing season.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., 2–3 cm wider diameter) with good drainage.
Method
Remove old medium; trim dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh orchid mix; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when medium decomposes; essential for healthy root growth and blooming.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh medium; inspect roots; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water early morning; ensure drainage; discard excess water; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base, ensuring moisture reaches the root ball without wetting the leaves. Water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days during active growth (spring/summer) and reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on humidity and temperature.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like sphagnum moss for moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf discoloration (yellowing or browning), bud drop, stunted growth, or wilting.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes, inhibits growth, and can cause root damage if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; avoid placing near drafty windows or cold surfaces.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; reduced blooming; increased susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity with misting or pebble trays; ensure adequate air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; flush periodically; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced orchid fertilizer (20-20-20) diluted to half strength every 2–4 weeks during active growth; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCymbidium devonianum is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts on felines from exposure to this orchid.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicCymbidium devonianum is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts on canines from exposure to this orchid.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicCymbidium devonianum is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this orchid species.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Cymbidium devonianum?
A: Water when the medium is nearly dry, typically every 7-10 days, depending on conditions.
Q: Does this orchid require special lighting?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light, similar to other orchids.
Q: Can Cymbidium devonianum be grown outdoors?
A: It can be grown outdoors in mild climates, but protection from extreme temperatures is necessary.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade with bright, ind |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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