Overview
Cymbidium pedicellatum (L.f.) Sw., also known as the Swollen Pedicel Cymbidium, is a species of orchid that belongs to the family Orchidaceae. The plant is mostly found in India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Thailand, where it grows as an epiphyte in deciduous and semi-evergreen forests, from lowlands to elevations of 2000 meters.Appearance
This orchid has pseudobulbs that are cylindrical to spindle-shaped and measure up to 35 cm in length. The leaves are coriaceous, or leathery, and measure from 40 to 80 cm in length. Cymbidium pedicellatum produces racemes that are up to 75 cm long, with up to 20 flowers per inflorescence. The flowers are yellow or greenish-yellow, often suffused with brown or reddish-brown markings. The sepals and petals are oblong-lanceolate, about 4 to 5 cm long and 1.2 to 2 cm wide, while the lip measures about 3 cm in length.Common Names
Cymbidium pedicellatum is commonly known as the Swollen Pedicel Cymbidium, Spindle-Shaped Cymbidium, and Tawny Cymbidium.Uses
This orchid is mainly used for ornamental purposes due to its attractive flowers. It has been cultivated in various parts of the world, including Europe, for its horticultural interest. The flowers of Cymbidium pedicellatum are long-lasting and are widely used for making flower arrangements, corsages, and garlands. In traditional medicine, the pseudobulbs, roots, and leaves of the plant are used in herbal remedies for various ailments. Some studies suggest that Cymbidium pedicellatum contains compounds with potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties, although more research is needed to confirm its medicinal value.In conclusion, Cymbidium pedicellatum is an orchid species with a wide distribution in South and Southeast Asia. It is known for its beautiful flowers and is used for ornamental and medicinal purposes. Its natural habitats are under threat, primarily due to habitat destruction and climate change. Conservation efforts are necessary to protect this valuable plant species and its habitats.
Light Requirements
Cymbidium pedicellatum thrives in a moderate shade to bright, filtered light. When grown indoors, it is best to place it near a window with an east or west-facing exposure where it can receive a few hours of direct morning or afternoon sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can burn the leaves and cause damage to the plant.
Temperature Requirements
This orchid species prefers moderate to warm temperatures. A daytime temperature range of 20-29°C (68-84°F) is ideal, while nighttime temperatures should not drop below 15°C (59°F). In cooler regions, the plant should be grown indoors or in a greenhouse where temperatures can be regulated to meet its needs.
Soil and Water Requirements
Cymbidium pedicellatum grows best in well-draining soil that contains a mixture of bark, peat moss, and perlite. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. The plant should be watered thoroughly once a week, allowing the excess water to drain out of the pot. It is important to avoid saturating the potting mix, as this can lead to root rot and damage the plant.
Fertilizer Requirements
This orchid species benefits from regular fertilization. It is recommended to use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer at half-strength once a month during the growing season (spring-summer). The plant should not be fertilized during its dormant period (fall-winter).
Cultivation of Cymbidium pedicellatum
Cymbidium pedicellatum requires a well-draining and porous substrate that mimics its natural habitat of rocky surfaces on mountainsides. Growing in pots with high-medium bark and supplemented pumice or perlite is ideal. The plant prefers bright, indirect light and can thrive in temperatures ranging between 50°F and 85°F.
Watering Needs
Watering Cymbidium pedicellatum must be done thoroughly but infrequently. Overwatering may lead to root rot, and underwatering may cause the plant to die. The ideal watering method is to allow the substrate to dry out partially before watering again. Compared to other orchids, this plant requires less humidity.
Fertilization
Cymbidium pedicellatum needs regular fertilization to grow healthy and produce magnificent flowers. Use a well-balanced, water-soluble fertilizer such as a 20-20-20 formula. It would help if you fertilized monthly, decreasing the frequency to bi-monthly during winter. Avoid overfertilizing as it may damage the plant.
Pruning
Cymbidium pedicellatum requires minimal pruning, and it should be done during the plant's dormancy period after flowering. Prune off any yellowed or dead leaves, and remove any diseased or damaged parts of the plant. Finally, split the orchid if it has outgrown its pot. However, split only if the plant has enough healthy parts to avoid losing the whole plant.
Propagation of Cymbidium pedicellatum
Cymbidium pedicellatum can be propagated through various methods, including:
Division
Division is the most common method of propagating Cymbidium pedicellatum. The best time to divide the plant is when it becomes overgrown or after it has bloomed. This usually occurs during the spring or early summer. Carefully separate the plant into multiple sections, ensuring that each division has ample roots and at least one new growth or pseudobulb.
Keiki propagation
Cymbidium pedicellatum produces keikis, or small plantlets, along the stem and at the base of the plant. These can be removed and potted individually once they have grown roots and have developed several leaves. Keikis can be encouraged by lightly damaging the stem or by applying a hormone rooting compound.
Seed propagation
Cymbidium pedicellatum can also be propagated through seed germination, although this method is more challenging and time-consuming. The plant produces small, dust-like seeds that need to be sown on a sterile growing medium. It may take several years before the seedlings grow large enough to produce flowers.
Regardless of the method used, it's important to provide Cymbidium pedicellatum with a suitable growing environment and care it deserves once propagated.
Disease and Pest Management for Cymbidium pedicellatum (L.f.) Sw.
As with any plant, Cymbidium pedicellatum (L.f.) Sw. is susceptible to diseases and pests. Disease and pest management are essential to ensure that the plant remains healthy and productive. Below are the common diseases and pests that affect this plant and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Fungal and bacterial diseases commonly affect Cymbidium pedicellatum. The diseases that have been identified to affect this plant include black rot, anthracnose, and root rot. Black rot displays symptoms such as the blackening of leaves, soft rotting of the bottom leaves, and rotting of the labellum. On the other hand, anthracnose causes irregular patches on the leaves, and they tend to become necrotic. It may also cause the leaves to dry up, and the flowers may drop prematurely. Root rot, on the other hand, causes the roots to become mushy and can lead to the collapse of the plant.
To manage fungal and bacterial infections, it is advisable to remove the diseased parts of the plant and apply a fungicide on the affected areas. To prevent infections, you should maintain proper sanitation and keep the plant dry to avoid moisture buildup that can cause the growth of harmful fungi.
Common Pests
Several pests can infest Cymbidium pedicellatum, including mites, thrips, slugs, snails, and scale insects. Mites are tiny, and their infestation may not be visible until they cause significant damage. These insects can cause the leaves to become stippled and curl up, and buds may fail to extend fully. Thrips are also tiny and cause damage by sucking sap from the leaves, leading to the appearance of silver streaks on the leaves. Scale insects and aphids can proliferate, causing the plant to produce less and become stunted.
To manage pests, you can introduce beneficial insects such as predatory mites and ladybugs. You can also manually remove larger pests such as slugs and snails. Treat plant infestations using an insecticidal soap or oil, or by applying a chemical insecticide.
