An Introduction to the Characteristics, Varieties and Care of Jianlan Orchid

Jianlan (Cymbidium ensifolium, the four-season orchid) is a terrestrial orchid of the genus Cymbidium in the family Orchidaceae. It gets its name because its main producing area historically was in the Fujian region, and some people also call it autumn orchid or four-season orchid. Its leaves are strap-shaped, broad and glossy, and the plant has an upright form, making it one of the most adaptable and widely cultivated of the traditional Chinese orchids.

It usually blooms in summer and autumn, and plants given suitable conditions can send up flower spikes and bloom several times a year, which is how the alias four-season orchid came about. The flower colors are fairly varied, including patterned flowers with purple markings as well as solid-color varieties, and the blooms have a delicate, lasting fragrance, with several flowers typically borne on a single spike.

Through long-term cultivation and selection, there are many Jianlan varieties, including both traditional old cultivars and new ones that keep appearing, such as Danxia Mingzhu, Fenghusu, Liye Baisu, Yuxue Danxin and Meigui Yaoji, each with its own characteristics in leaf form, flower color and fragrance type, so buyers can choose according to their own preference.

For care, Jianlan prefers a warm, humid, well-ventilated semi-shaded environment. It is best grown in a loose, airy potting medium, watered on a wet-dry cycle, and given light but frequent feeding during the growing season. In summer, take care to shade it and prevent stuffiness, and in winter avoid direct cold drafts. If the buds turn black, shrivel or drop without opening, it is usually related to sudden temperature changes, improper watering, fertilizer burn or damaged roots; adjust the environment and the water and fertilizer management in time to help the plant recover.