Shengshi Mudan is a multi-petaled Chinese orchid variety whose flower shape resembles a peony.

Shengshi Mudan is the name of a variety among Chinese orchids (Cymbidium), named because its petals layer upon layer when the flower opens and the bloom closely resembles a peony; it belongs to the peony-petal (multi-petal) odd-flower type that attracts considerable attention among orchids. Like varieties such as Jiuxian Mudan, Lin'an Mudan and Xinxiong Mudan, they all take their names from the shared trait of blooming like a peony.

From an ornamental point of view, the petal count of this type of variety is usually noticeably higher than that of ordinary orchids, with inner and outer petals unfolding layer by layer, a full flower shape, and the whole bloom appearing rich and imposing, while the ornamental period is also relatively long, and the flowers mostly carry an elegant orchid fragrance when they open. The flowering period is generally concentrated in winter and spring, and whether entered in orchid shows or grown in pots on a balcony or in a courtyard for viewing, it performs well.

The care methods are similar to those for ordinary Chinese orchids. The growing medium should be loose, breathable and slightly acidic, commonly mixed from materials such as bark and Kanuma pumice; place it daily in a well-ventilated spot with scattered light, and water according to the principle of watering when dry and letting it dry out between waterings, avoiding long-term water accumulation in the pot that causes root rot. In summer, pay attention to shading and cooling, and in winter give an appropriately low-temperature environment, which is more conducive to the plant accumulating nutrients and flowering smoothly.

It should be noted that ornamental plants called Mudan (peony) on the market include both true peonies of the Paeoniaceae family and orchid varieties named after the peony, so the category must be distinguished first when buying; even among Chinese orchids, different peony varieties also differ in petal shape, petal count and flower color, so it is advisable to judge based on actual photos of the open blooms and to choose seedlings with sturdy roots and no disease spots as far as possible.