Cymbidium bicolor (Two-Colored Cymbidium)

Cymbidium bicolor (Two-Colored Cymbidium) is a large epiphytic orchid species boasting long, arching, or pendulous scapes studded with up to 26 fragrant flowers. Blooming in the spring and summer, the sparsely arranged blossoms, 1 3/4 in. across (4.5 cm), feature sepals and petals usually with bright yellow margins and brown scarious basal sheaths. The ellipsoid, laterally compressed pseudobulbs carry thick, leathery strap-shaped leaves. Native to northeastern India and southeastern Asia, Cymbidium bicolor prefers hot to warm conditions for optimum growth. It is found in semi-deciduous and deciduous dry lowland forests and savanna-like woodlands at elevations of 1300-3600 ft. (400-1100 m).

• Grows up to 30 in. tall (75 cm).
• Grows in epiphytic orchid compost in bright light with light shade during the middle of the day. Provide good air circulation.
• This species likes even year-round, humid, and warm conditions with regular fertilizer.
• Generally disease free. Keep an eye out for aphids, glasshouse red spider mites, and mealybugs.
• Native to Vietnam, Malaysia, Borneo, Sulawesi, Java, Sumatra, and the Philippines.

Tips for reblooming

• Make sure that your Cymbidium is receiving at least 12 hours of filtered sunlight or UV rays daily, especially during spring, summer, and fall months. If the leaves are bright green or too dark, your plant is not getting enough light for blooming. Leaves should be medium to golden green in color, not dark green.
• Moderate and regular watering and adequate fertilization are important in triggering your cymbidium orchids to bloom.
• Cymbidiums need a day-night temperature difference of at least 25°F (15°C) to bloom well. If you are growing your cymbidium outside, make sure you regularly remove all fallen leaves and debris that accumulate on the orchid and in the pot. This will avoid them to decompose and cover your emerging flower spikes and rot them out.