Overview of Cymbidium tabulare
Cymbidium tabulare (L.f.) Sw. is a species of orchid that is native to Southeast Asia and India. It belongs to the family Orchidaceae and is commonly referred to as "Tabular Orchid".
Appearance of Cymbidium tabulare
Cymbidium tabulare is a large orchid plant that can reach up to 30 cm in height. It has long, flat leaves that can grow up to 45 cm in length and 4 cm in width. The cylindrical stem of the plant can produce up to 20 flowers, which are usually white or pale yellow with a pink center. The petals and sepals are narrow and pointed, while the lip of the flower is broad and flat.
Uses of Cymbidium tabulare
Cymbidium tabulare is a popular plant for ornamental purposes in gardens and homes. Its beautiful flowers and attractive foliage make it a great choice for decoration. The plant is also used in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties. The flowers are believed to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and are used to treat fever, cough, and respiratory diseases. The plant is also used in skincare products due to its antioxidant and anti-aging properties.
Common Names of Cymbidium tabulare
Cymbidium tabulare is commonly known as Tabular Orchid, Tabulated Cymbidium, Bamboo Orchid, and Himalayan Orchid.
Light Requirements
Cymbidium tabulare (L.f.) Sw. thrives best in bright but indirect sunlight. Excessive exposure to direct sunlight can burn the leaves and flowers, causing damage to the plant's overall health. Keep the plant in a location that receives filtered or diffused light, such as it would get under a shade cloth or tree canopy.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Cymbidium tabulare (L.f.) Sw. growth is between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Temperatures above this range can cause root rot, while those below it can stunt the growth of the plant. During the daytime, the plant prefers cool temperatures, while at night, it prefers warmer conditions. Therefore, it is vital to provide cool nights and warm days for the plant to grow optimally.
Soil Requirements
Cymbidium tabulare (L.f.) Sw. is an epiphyte that requires a well-draining, moist but not waterlogged soil. It prefers a porous medium consisting of a mix of bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite. The soil mixture should be well-aerated to prevent waterlogging and root rot. Regular repotting every two to three years is also essential to maintain good soil quality and prevent the build-up of mineral salts that can be harmful to the plant.
Cultivation methods of Cymbidium tabulare (L.f.) Sw.
Cymbidium tabulare (L.f.) Sw. orchids are terrestrial orchids that prefer a well-draining medium like a mix of bark chips, sphagnum moss, and perlite. They thrive in bright but indirect sunlight and do well in temperatures ranging from 50°F (10°C) to 80°F (27°C). The plants should be planted in a larger pot than they require to accommodate their growth and should be repotted every two to four years.
Watering needs of Cymbidium tabulare (L.f.) Sw.
Cymbidium tabulare (L.f.) Sw. orchids prefer to stay evenly moist but not soaking wet. You should water them once a week thoroughly, allowing the excess water to drain from the pot. During the growing season, they may require frequent watering compared to the dormant season. Avoid wetting the crown of the plant, as this can lead to crown rot.
Fertilization of Cymbidium tabulare (L.f.) Sw.
Cymbidium tabulare (L.f.) Sw. orchids require a balanced orchid fertilizer that contains all the essential macronutrients, including nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. You should fertilize the plants once a month during the growing season. During the dormant season, you may reduce the frequency of fertilizer application to once in two months.
Pruning of Cymbidium tabulare (L.f.) Sw.
Cymbidium tabulare (L.f.) Sw. orchids require minimal pruning as they tend to grow slowly. However, you should trim off any dead, yellowing, or damaged leaves or pseudobulbs as soon as they appear. This will help to promote healthy growth and prevent any diseases from spreading. You should also remove spent flower spikes as soon as they finish blooming.
Propagation of Cymbidium tabulare (L.f.) Sw.
Cymbidium tabulare is a gorgeous orchid species native to Southeast Asia and Indonesia. It is often grown as an ornamental plant due to its stunning blooms and hardiness. The plant is propagated by two main methods, namely, division of mature plants and seed germination.
Propagation by division
Division of mature Cymbidium tabulare plants is a common method of propagation. It involves separating the mature plant into smaller sections with at least two growth points or pseudobulbs each. This method should be done during the spring when new growth begins. Use a sterilized knife or shears to ensure that the divisions do not get infected. Repot the separate divisions into sterilized pots filled with a suitable orchid mix potting medium.
Propagation by Seed germination
Propagation by seed germination is a more complex propagation method but is a preferred method for breeding new Cymbidium tabulare cultivars. It requires a sterile environment and specific growth conditions. The seed pods should be harvested when they have matured and turned brown. Clean the seeds by washing them in a solution of water and bleach. Germinate the seeds in a growth medium or agar that contains sugar, vitamins, and growth hormones. Once seedlings have grown, transplant them into small orchid pots.
Disease and Pest Management for Cymbidium Tabulare
Cymbidium tabulare is a popular orchid species that is widely cultivated for its beautiful and attractive flowers. However, like any other plant, Cymbidium tabulare is susceptible to a range of diseases and pests that can affect its growth and development. Here are some common diseases and pests that might attack this plant and ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
Fungal and Bacterial Diseases: The most common diseases that affect Cymbidium tabulare are fungal and bacterial diseases such as leaf spot, root rot, and black rot. These diseases are caused by various pathogenic fungi and bacteria that thrive in humid conditions. To manage these diseases, it is important to maintain good cultural practices such as proper watering, adequate ventilation, and sanitation. Infected plant parts should be removed and destroyed, and fungicides or bactericides can be applied as recommended.
Viral Diseases: Cymbidium tabulare can also be infected by various viruses such as Cymbidium mosaic virus and Odontoglossum ringspot virus. These viruses cause symptoms such as necrosis, deformation, and stunted growth. Unfortunately, there is no cure for viral diseases, and infected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent further spread.
Common Pests
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are common pests that attack Cymbidium tabulare and other orchids. These pests feed on plant sap and produce honeydew, which attracts ants and promotes fungal growth. To manage mealybugs, it is important to inspect plants regularly and remove any visible pests. Insecticidal soap or horticultural oil can be applied as recommended.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are another common pest that attacks Cymbidium tabulare and other orchids. These pests thrive in hot and dry conditions and can cause extensive damage to plants by feeding on plant cells. To manage spider mites, it is important to increase humidity levels and use a miticide as recommended.
Thrips: Thrips are small insects that attack Cymbidium tabulare and other orchids by feeding on plant sap and causing damage to flowers and leaves. To manage thrips, it is important to monitor plants regularly and remove any visible pests. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can be applied as recommended.
By following good cultural practices and using appropriate pest and disease management strategies, Cymbidium tabulare can thrive and produce beautiful flowers year after year.
