Introduction and Appreciation Highlights of the Cymbidium ensifolium 'Hongheguan' Variety
One of the new standard lotus-petal varieties of Cymbidium ensifolium, discovered in 2004 in Rong County, Guangxi. The plant has a graceful form, with upright, broad, thick, and glutinous-textured leaves. The flower has good overall structure, clam-shell-shaped petals (holding petals), a large round lip that does not curl back, and vivid flower color. The three outer petals have constricted bases and broad angles, with thick, fleshy petals. The whole flower carries an air of kingly majesty, its fragrance is far-reaching, and its flowering period is long...
1. Introduction:
Hongheguan was discovered in 2001 bearing flowers in Fuzuo Forest Area, Langshui Township, Rong County, Guangxi. Discoverer: Tianlong Orchid Garden. Named by: Professor Liu Qingyong. It was also published on the cover of the 2007, Issue 1 of the magazine "Chinese Orchids". Orchid experts made the following evaluation: "There are more and more famous varieties of Cymbidium ensifolium. In comparison, the newly discovered Sijilan Hongheguan has both the red of the Sijilan Yipinhong and the lotus-petal form of the Sijilan Junhe, combining the merits of two famous varieties. This orchid's plant form and leaf posture are both beautiful; even when not in bloom, just looking at the upright, thick, and emerald-green leaves, and the vigorous and majestic plant, is quite a sight. Its petals are thick and substantial, and its flowering period extends longer than that of ordinary Cymbidium ensifolium; sometimes the flowers can remain for nearly a month without dropping. It is a rare one among Cymbidium ensifolium." (See 2007•1 "Chinese Orchids" page 18)
2. Awards:
On October 1, 2002, the whole nation celebrated together! The First Orchid Exhibition of Rong County, Guangxi was grandly held at the Qiaoxiang Square. The discoverer, Tianlong Orchid Garden, entered the Hongheguan that had bloomed for the second time, and it won unanimous praise from the judges, delightfully winning the gold award. As the saying goes: "Plant a flower with care and it will not bloom; plant a willow carelessly and it will grow into shade." From then on, Tianlong Orchid Garden doted on this lotus-petal orchid even more. Regardless of the changing seasons, they watered every other day, frequently applied fertilizer, and constantly repotted and changed the planting medium. Unfortunately, not to mention sending up new shoots, even the mother plants became more and more shriveled, almost losing their roots and dying. This is why Hongheguan, many years after its discovery, still has so few plants. "When the mountains end and the waters dry up, one doubts there is no way forward; then the willows are dark and the flowers are bright, and another village appears." In November 2006, a pot of 8 robust Hongheguan plants finally bloomed again. The flowers reached 2.5 to 2.8 cm, and the bloom was even more dignified and generous than in previous years, with strong structure and a towering bearing, quite possessing a kingly demeanor!
