Grow Cymbidium sinense This Way for Glossy Green Leaves and Abundant Blooms

Cymbidium sinense is a perennial evergreen herbaceous plant in the orchid family, genus Cymbidium. It is also known as the New Year orchid, named because its flowering period mostly falls in late winter and early spring, often opening around the Spring Festival. Its leaves are broad and thick, deep green and glossy, and they look attractive even when the plant is not in bloom. Cymbidium sinense is mainly distributed in southern China and prefers a warm, humid environment with plenty of diffused light.

The flower stems of Cymbidium sinense are upright, and the flowers are mostly purple-brown or deep purplish red with a delicate, subtle fragrance. Common cultivated varieties include 'Jinzui Molan', 'Yinbian Molan', 'Qihei Molan' and 'Baimo', and many varieties have leaves edged in gold or silver. It looks somewhat similar to Cymbidium faberi, and when telling them apart you can look at the leaves and flowers: Cymbidium sinense has broader, glossier leaves and blooms in winter and spring; Cymbidium faberi has narrow, long leaves with fine serrations along the edges and flowers later.

When caring for Cymbidium sinense, the light should be soft, and harsh direct sun should be avoided; a well-ventilated spot with bright, diffused light is best. Water according to the principle of letting the soil dry before watering again, keeping the potting mix slightly moist but not waterlogged, and when the air is dry you can spray water around the plant to raise humidity. During the growing season, apply light fertilizer frequently, using a diluted liquid fertilizer; too high a concentration can easily damage the roots.

If you notice the leaves curling, it is usually caused by air that is too dry, insufficient watering or light that is too strong, and adjusting the environment promptly will generally allow it to recover. During the flowering period, keep the temperature stable, avoid moving the plant frequently and direct cold drafts, and slightly reducing water can help prolong the flowering period. As long as the environment is suitable and the methods are appropriate, Cymbidium sinense will have glossy leaves and send up flower spikes and bloom smoothly year after year.