Feature
34
November | 2021
OUR FIVE
FAVORITE
TYPES OF
ORCHIDS
CYMBIDIUM
Commonly known as "boat orchids,"
Cymbidium orchids feature butterfly-
like open sepals with highly defined
labella. ese orchids come in a
variety of colors, and some species
possess a beautiful subtle fragrance.
Cut Flower Bloom Time
Cut Cymbidium blooms can last
four to six weeks. For best results,
cut stem ends at a slant under
clean water.
Houseplant Bloom Time and Care
Cymbidium blooms on plants can
last one to three months, making
them ideal for flower shops. ese
plants also have a surprisingly high
tolerance to low temperatures, easily
surviving nighttime temperatures
in the 50s. For best results, provide
diffused light, and water frequently,
but never allow roots to sit in
standing water because they
are prone to rot.
Where to Source Them
• Gallup & Stribling Orchids
gallup-stribling.com
• Green Point Nurseries
greenpointnursery.com
PHALAENOPSIS
With the common name of "moth
orchid," Phalaenopsis is celebrated
for its sophisticated style and ease
of care. Many varieties have white or
pink blooms, but hues also include
purple, lavender, pale lime green and
pale yellow, as well as multicolored
spotted, speckled and striped blooms.
Cut Flower Bloom Time
Cut Phalaenopsis blooms can last
one to two weeks. For best results,
occasionally mist the blooms with
room-temperature water.
Houseplant Bloom Time and Care
Phalaenopsis blooms on plants can
last one to two months. ese plants
are now available with delightfully
curved stems. ese plants favor
temperatures in the 60 F to 70 F
range and can do well in low-light
environments and with infrequent
watering.
Where to Source Them
• Westerlay Orchids, westerlay.com
• Matsui Nursery
matsuinursery.com
• Green Point Nurseries
greenpointnursery.com
CATTLEYA
Known as "e Queen of Orchids,"
Cattleya orchids have a bold tropical
look, ideal for bold modern and
retro designs. Flowers often appear
two-tone, with distinctive sepals
and labella appearing in bright
contrasting colors.
Cut Flower Bloom Time
Cut Cattleya blooms can last up
to seven days. For best results,
order close to the date of use.
Houseplant Bloom Time and Care
Cattleya blooms on plants can last
one to two months. ese plants
favor temperatures in the 60 F
to 70 F range and high humidity
(50 percent), spaced with periods
of drying.
Where to Source Them
• Cal-Orchid Inc., calorchid.com
Westerlay
Yassi Taheri
Tehran, Iran
