Green Plum is a collective term for green-toned plum-petal varieties among Chinese orchids (guolan).

Green Plum is a common name in the appreciation of Chinese orchids (guolan), generally referring to orchid varieties whose flowers are greenish or emerald green in color and whose petals belong to the plum-petal type. The plum petal is an important category in the traditional petal-type doctrine, standing alongside the lotus petal and the narcissus petal, and has long been favored by orchid enthusiasts. Varieties named Green Plum often combine the neat flower shape of the plum petal with an elegant green tone.

In terms of morphology, Green Plum varieties usually have three outer petals that are short, round and compact, with a narrowed base and flared corners; the inner segments of the central column have cupped and mutually clasping petals; and the lip is mostly short and well-formed, giving the whole flower a rounded, spirited appearance. The flower color is predominantly green, either deep green or pale emerald, accompanied by a delicate fragrance and a long-lasting flowering period, making it highly charming as a potted ornamental.

In terms of variety distribution, strains bearing the name Green Plum can be found among many orchid species, including Cymbidium goeringii (Chunlan), Cymbidium faberi (Huilan), Cymbidium ensifolium (Jianlan) and Cymbidium goeringii var. longibracteatum (Songchun). Examples include Laotian Green Plum and Quan Green Plum among Chunlan, and Xian Green Plum and Chenliu Green Plum among Huilan. Different orchid species differ considerably in flowering period and plant and leaf morphology, so growers can choose what to cultivate according to local climate and personal preference.

As for care, Green Plum varieties have habits similar to other Chinese orchids. They are best planted in a loose, breathable, well-drained growing medium and placed in a ventilated environment with diffused light; water by the principle of letting the medium dry before watering again, and avoid waterlogging that causes root rot. During the growing season, maintain suitable temperature and humidity, control pests and diseases promptly, and once the plant is robust it will bloom on schedule, displaying the dignified charm characteristic of plum-petal flowers.