Chinese Cymbidium
cymbidium faberi
Also known as: ["Faberi Cymbidium","Chinese Orchid"]
Overview
A terrestrial orchid species native to China, known for its elegant, fragrant flowers and graceful foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Cymbidium |
| Botanical Name: | Cymbidium faberi |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor or sheltered outdoor location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days during active growth, especially in dry climates, rarely required in humid environmen
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogged roots.
- Soil Type: Orchid mix consisting of fir bark, sphagnum moss, perlite, and charcoal for good aeration and drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when dead/damaged parts are observed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing only non-vital parts without compromising the plant’s structure
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; can tolerate morning or late afternoon direct sun but avoid harsh midday sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching; place indoors near an east or south-facing window with sheer curtains; outdoors, use dappled shade or partial shade.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade with bright, indirect light
Rotate the plant weekly for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; avoid placing near heat sources that can intensify light.
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 until water drains from the bottom; avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.
Soil
well-draining orchid mix with bark and perlite
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use a pre-made orchid mix for convenience; avoid heavy garden soils; ensure pots have ample drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–75°F (10–24°C). Requires a cool dormant period (40–50°F or 4–10°C) in winter to initiate blooming.
Maintain a diurnal temperature fluctuation of 10–15°F (5–8°C) for optimal growth; avoid placing near drafty windows or heating vents.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth (spring to fall) with a balanced orchid fertilizer, none in winter
Flush the pot with plain water monthly to prevent salt buildup; fertilize after watering to avoid root burn; adjust frequency based on growth rate.
Propagation
Methods
Division of pseudobulb clumps during repotting; mature plants can be divided into smaller clumps with at least 3–4 pseudobulbs each.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- 1. Remove the plant from its pot.
- 2. Identify natural divisions with healthy pseudobulbs.
- 3. Cut between divisions with sterile tools.
- 4. Repot divisions in fresh orchid mix.
- 5. Water lightly and provide indirect light.
Best Time: Spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing and after flowering has ceased.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), humid (50–70%), and bright indirect light with good air circulation.
Medium
Orchid mix (bark, perlite, charcoal) or a well-draining mix with good aeration.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; rooting hormone can be used for stem cuttings if attempted, though less common for Cymbidiums.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment if cared for properly; new growth may appear within 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sterile pruning shears, orchid mix, pots with drainage holes, clean workspace.
Quick Tips
Ensure each division has healthy roots and pseudobulbs; water sparingly until new growth appears; maintain high humidity for the first few weeks.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower spikes at the base once they turn brown; trim leaves back to the pseudobulb; remove dead pseudobulbs if they show no signs of life.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower spikes, dead or yellowing leaves, and any damaged pseudobulbs to maintain plant health and aesthetics.
Tools
Sterile pruning shears or scissors, disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Sterilize tools before use; prune dead or damaged parts; avoid cutting into healthy pseudobulbs; clean up debris to prevent pests/diseases.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, just before the start of the active growing season, after flowering has finished.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by one standard size (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot) or 2–3 cm in diameter.
Method
Remove the plant gently, remove old/dead roots and medium, divide if necessary, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh orchid mix, ensure good drainage, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the potting medium breaks down (typically every 2–3 years); necessary if roots outgrow the pot or if the plant becomes top-heavy.
Checklist
Choose the right pot size; use fresh orchid mix; ensure drainage; water sparingly after repotting; provide indirect light during recovery.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water until it drains freely from the pot’s bottom, avoiding wetting the leaves to prevent fungal issues. Allow the medium to dry slightly between waterings.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days during active growth (spring/summer); reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on humidity, temperature, and pot size.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like sphagnum moss for moisture retention; ensure the mix is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf spotting in excessive heat; bud drop or stunted growth in insufficient cool periods; wilting or root rot in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow metabolic processes, leading to reduced nutrient uptake and increased susceptibility to root rot if soil remains wet.
Solution: Ensure good air circulation; avoid overwatering during cold periods; provide a cool but not freezing environment (40–50°F or 4–10°C) for dormancy.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, dehydration, and bud blast, especially if combined with low humidity or intense sunlight.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun hours; increase humidity through misting or a humidity tray; ensure adequate ventilation to prevent heat buildup.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted orchid fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; flush soil monthly; avoid winter fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced orchid fertilizer (20-20-20) diluted to half strength every 2–4 weeks during active growth (spring/summer); reduce or stop fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCymbidium faberi is not considered toxic to cats. This orchid species has not been associated with any toxic effects in felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicCymbidium faberi is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this orchid species.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicCymbidium faberi is not known to have toxic effects on humans under normal conditions. It is commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant without reported incidents of toxicity.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Cymbidium faberi?
A: Water thoroughly when the potting medium is nearly dry, typically every 7-10 days, depending on environmental conditions.
Q: Does Cymbidium faberi require special lighting?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Cymbidium turning yellow?
A: Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiencies; adjust care practices accordingly.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade with bright, ind |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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