Differences between Cymbidium and Huai Orchids
In the orchid family, Cymbidium and Huai orchids often confuse gardening beginners. Although these two traditional famous flowers belong to the same genus of orchids, they have significant differences in growth habits and ornamental characteristics. Mastering their identification points can not only enhance the pleasure of appreciating orchids but also help with scientific care.
Differences in Pseudobulb Morphology
Cymbidium's Nutrient Storage
Cymbidium's spherical pseudobulbs can reach a diameter of 2.5 cm, acting as an underground nutritional warehouse. This unique structure gives it strong drought resistance. The expanded pseudobulb surface shows annular node patterns, storing nutrients to support the plant through dry seasons.
Huai Orchid's Root Characteristics
Huai orchid's elliptical pseudobulbs have a diameter of only 0.8-1.2 cm, but their well-developed fleshy roots can form dense clusters. This structure determines that Huai orchids require a higher level of air humidity for care, and the symbiotic mycelium covering the root surface can enhance nutrient absorption efficiency.
Leaf Texture Comparison
Cymbidium's Graceful Leaf Shape
Cymbidium leaves are ribbon-like and curved, 2-3 cm wide, with a thin waxy layer on the leaf surface, feeling soft and smooth to the touch. The veins are hidden in the mesophyll, forming smooth lines, and the leaf tips often have a natural arc, presenting an elegant and graceful visual effect overall.
Huai Orchid's Robust Leaf Posture
Differences between Cymbidium and Huai Orchids
Huai orchid's upright leaves can reach 60 cm, with fine sawtooth edges visible to the naked eye. Under strong light, 7 prominent main veins can be observed, and the keel-like protuberance on the back of the leaf is distinct, which can enhance the leaf's load-bearing capacity, adapting to the growth needs of multiple flower spikes.
Flowering Period and Inflorescence Characteristics
Cymbidium's Midsummer Bloom
Cymbidium's flowering period is concentrated from June to October, with 5-9 flowers per spike. The inflorescence arrangement is sparse, flower diameter is 4-6 cm, the labellum has distinct purple and red patterns, and the fragrance is especially noticeable during high temperatures.
Huai Orchid's Spring Prelude
Huai orchid starts flowering in March, with a raceme inflorescence of up to 13 flowers, closely arranged in a columnar shape. The flowers, 5-7 cm in diameter, are yellow-green with scattered purple-red spots on the labellum, creating a spectacular floral column landscape when in full bloom.
Through a systematic comparison of pseudobulb morphology, leaf texture, and flowering characteristics, these two types of traditional famous orchids can be accurately distinguished. Mastering these identification points can enhance the ability to judge ornamental value and provide basic knowledge for hybrid breeding. It is recommended to observe real specimens and deepen the understanding of orchid morphological characteristics in practice.