Small Cymbidiums: What constituent a miniature

Cymbidium Sunshine Falls 'Butterball'

Cymbidiums are one of the most iconic species of orchids. They are known for their large stature and many tall sprays of long-lasting flowers. Many of these lovely giants require a cooling off period. Their size combined with the need for cool temperatures has kept me from adding Cymbidiums to my collection in the past. Two trends in Cymbidium hybridization are making me reconsider. First, hybridizers are working with smaller growing species to reduce Cymbidium size. The reduction in size allows growers more options for fall and winter cooling. It is much easier to find location for a smaller plant than a large one. The second trend is the introduction of warmth tolerant species such Cymbidium canaliculatum, dayanum, and bicolor. Warmth-tolerant Cymbidiums are not heat lovers. Rather, they are more able to grow and flower at slightly warmer temperature than standard Cymbidiums. Considering these two trends, I decided maybe Cymbidiums were no longer out of reach.

Cymbidium Cherry Cola

I picked up my first Cymbidium at the 2014 fall Mid America Orchid Congress meeting host by the Central Ohio Orchid Society in Columbus, OH. I bought a compact Cymbidium Cherry Cola (Cym. Pink Peach x Cym. Beaconfire). This complex hybrid is consider a compact grower. It still is one of the largest orchids I own. It is about twenty-four inches tall and takes up considerable bench space. However it is warmth tolerant so it will be very comfortable in the Ohio summers, which easily climb into the 80s. Additionally, I am able to accommodate its cooling off-period in the fall to initiate spikes. This flower season it bloomed on five spikes and gave out an outrageously wonderful scent. 

Cymbidium Sunshine Falls 'Butterball'

Encouraged by the prospect of smaller warmth tolerant Cymbidium hybrids, I bought a Cymbidium Sunshine Falls 'Butterball' (Cymbidium King Arthur x madidum) over the winter. The name definitely captures the look of the flowers. The yellow was very vibrant which really made the detailing on the lip stand out. The inflorescence starts upright but cascades downward as it elongates. Quick tip: It is very important to stake the inflorescence as it will become heavy and is prone to snapping. 


I have been very pleased with my warmth-tolerant miniature Cymbidiums so far. I am going to flight the urge to buy additional ones until I am sure I can grow these two appropriately. I will be keeping a close eye on these over the next year.