Orchids vs. Cymbidiums: Same Family, Diverse Needs

Someone told you orchids like heat, Cymbidiums like cold. That's a vast oversimplification.

The Truth

• Cymbidiums ARE orchids—one genus among 30,000+ orchid species.
• Over 40 Cymbidium species: some from Himalayan slopes (cold-tolerant), others from Southeast Asian jungles (warm).
• Orchids inhabit deserts, jungles, mountains, near Arctic Circle—sizes from thimble to 8+ feet, vines to 50 feet.
• Many popular orchids prefer warmth; many Cymbidiums need cool spells to bloom—but exceptions abound.

Bottom Line

Orchid diversity is enormous. Generalizations fail. Research your specific plant's origin.