Cymbidium, commonly known as boat orchids, is a genus of evergreen flowering plants in the orchid family Orchidaceae. Orchids in this genus are epiphytic, lithophytic, terrestrial or rarely leafless saprophytic herbs usually with pseudobulbs. They have decorative flowers spikes and are one of the least demanding indoor orchids. To flower well they need a distinct difference between day and night temperatures in late summer. Plants need to remain outside in autumn until night temperatures drop to near 0°C. Cymbidiums have few pests or diseases but can be affected by aphids, spider mites and viral diseases.

Cymbidium aloifolium, the aloe-leafed cymbidium, is a species of orchid found in Asia, especially China and southeast Asia from Burma to Sumatra. It can be found growing between rocks, on another plant, on rotting wood and leaf litter of open areas. The word cymbidium comes from the Greek kumbos meaning “hole, cavity” and the Latin specific name is just a translation of the English “aloe-leafed”. It is a large sized, hot to warm growing epiphyte or lithophyte that flowers in spring.

Growing orchids from seed is a fairly specialized undertaking and it requires a bit of understanding of tissue culture techniques. If you have never grown orchids from seed, we recommend that before attempting this you should first contact your local Orchid Society, or purchase a book on the subject, or both!