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In China, the Cymbidium orchid became part of history even before the emergence of Western Civilization. Throughout Chinese history, the Cymbidium has been a symbol of virtuosity and friendship with its reputation for longevity, elegant simplicity, and sweet fragrance. In about 500 BC., Confucius compared the Asian Cymbidium flower to the virtues of education. He also referred to it as the “King of Fragrance” a term that has withstood time and is still in use today.
In ancient times, the Chinese nobility collected the Cymbidium species, and during the Wei Dynasty (220AD-265AD) the art of cultivation spread to aristocratic Chinese families. Cymbidium orchids became “living treasures” and family heirlooms. During the Tang Dynasty (618AD-907AD) the first orchid farms were established and the price and supply of orchids brought them to a level that were affordable for the middle class Chinese families.
From these origins, the popularity of Chinese Cymbidiums spread throughout Asia and eventually elsewhere in the world. Its symbolism of virtue and morality is still recognized by enthusiasts. In Asian culture, it is considered an honor to give or receive a Cymbidium orchid as a gift, particularly as a birthday present.
At present the genus Cymbidium consists of 44 species originating from the Asian continent. A subgenus of this group, consisting of about six species, is call Jensoa. This species group consists of the traditional Chinese Cymbidium species. Within this species group there may be many variations defined by the color of the flowers, posture of the leaves and leaf coloration! Species variations with pure color flowers and variegated leaves are highly prized.
Chinese Cymbidiums typically grow high in mountains on rocky outcrops among bushes and bamboo thickets. Under these conditions, the humidity is high, the temperature is moderate, and the taller vegetation filters the sunlight. Rocks and the roots of the bamboo constrict the roots of the orchid plants. The temperature decreases with elevations, while the humidity increases. Typical rainfall on the mountaintop depends on the seasons, the prevailing winds, and proximity of the mountain to the sea. Even on the mountaintop, the air is less humid and rainfall is reduced during the winter.
Interpreting the natural habitat, Cymbidium (Cym) sinense would be the easiest for those who like to grow indoors on a windowsill or under lights. It can withstand periods of lower humidity and thrives in moderate temperatures. Cymbidium faberi requires higher humidity and can not survive higher temperatures
The flowers of Chinese Cymbidiums tend to be smaller than most other Cymbidiums. Spikes can be twice the height of the plant. The number, shape, fragrance, and timing of flowers vary by species and with a species many of the variations are named dependent on the color of the flower. For example, in Cymbidium sinense there are variations with flowers than range from almost black (‘San Chaun’) to pure yellow (‘Wu Tsu Tsai’) to red (‘Ta Ming’) to almost pure white (‘Pai Mu Su’). The pure white clone is highly treasured and is most valuable.
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