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What is the difference between Cymbidium faberi and Cymbidium sinense? A quick guide to tell them apart

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Cymbidium faberi and Cymbidium sinense are two different plants that share some similarities, as you can tell from their names. But in certain respects they are actually very different, for example in how wide or narrow their leaves are, and whether the leaves are smooth or rough. In addition, their pseudobulbs and flowering periods also differ. The colors of their flowers are also quite different.

1. Leaves

If you are not sure which is which, we suggest looking at the leaves, though of course this requires both plants to be present, because only then can you compare them. The leaves of Cymbidium faberi are much narrower, and they feel rougher than those of Cymbidium sinense. The leaves of Cymbidium sinense are clearly broader and smoother, and besides these two points, its leaves are also much glossier.

2. Pseudobulbs

This is another way to tell them apart, and it is a fairly convenient method, since you do not need to have both plants at the same time to identify them. The pseudobulbs of Cymbidium faberi are extremely small, almost invisible if you do not look carefully. Those of Cymbidium sinense, by contrast, are especially large and spherical.

3. Flowering period

When growing orchids, people want to see not only the leaves but also the flowers. The flowering times of the two differ quite a lot. Generally speaking, Cymbidium faberi blooms in April and May, while Cymbidium sinense is later, flowering in winter, roughly from October to March of the following year. So the flowering period is very distinctive, and if someone sees the flowers blooming but does not know which kind of orchid it is, this is a good way to tell.

4. Flowers

Cymbidium faberi has quite a few varieties; its petals are fairly large, and its colors are numerous, including red, yellow, green, pink, white and purple. Besides these colors, transitional shades and compound colors of these colors are also among its flower colors. Its flower stems are especially upright, and it is generally used for potted plants and cut flowers. Cymbidium sinense has fewer flower colors, generally dark purple and purple-brown, though it also has yellow-green, peach-pink and white. Its flowers also have a rather strong fragrance.

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