Introduction and Appreciation of the Cymbidium ensifolium Variety 'Longyan Shibakai'

Among the solid-center (suxin) strains of Cymbidium ensifolium, 'Longyan Shibakai' bears the highest number of flowers per scape. It is named for the combination of its place of origin, Longyan, Fujian, and its floral trait of producing as many as eighteen flowers per scape, ranking first among the multi-flowered solid-center strains of Cymbidium ensifolium. In 'Longyan Shibakai', the leaf width is 1 to 2 cm, the height is around 50 cm, and the leaves are in a semi-arching, drooping posture. The plant stands upright in a semi-erect stance, with the leaf tips clearly semi-arching and drooping; the arch is well-formed, neither drooping to one side, nor twisted, nor upturned, making it appear especially dignified and elegant. Its leaf stalks are relatively long, gradually broadening toward the middle, tapering to a pointed tip, with leaf teeth at the tip; the leaf surface is rather rough, the lateral vein grooves are distinct, and the leaf margins are raised and thick. On the end face of two leaves of the plant, there is 1 pair of arrow-shaped leaf grooves, and the leaf color is deep green. When this variety is grown in connected clumps of more than three generations, with ample light and proper cultivation, the number of flowers per scape can reach as many as eighteen. The flower scape is almost level with the leaf tips, making it a standard scape that rises above the foliage. It is a large, formal flower of the slightly drooping-shoulder type. The petals are thick and tender, white with a green tinge, the lip is pure white and flawless, the column petals (puxin) close over the column, and the three outer sepals face slightly forward; the flower posture is dignified and graceful, making it one of the most beautiful in flower form among the solid-center strains of Cymbidium ensifolium. The fragrance is clear and delicately far-reaching. This orchid plant multiplies strongly, has good resistance to stress and adaptability, and has no special management requirements, making it truly a famous orchid that is precious yet not delicate.