My Creative Workbook

Christine de Beer - effortless floral craftsman

Boat Orchids

Here in Vancouver the Cymbidium Orchids or Boat Orchids are almost at the end of their seasonal peak preferring day temperatures of 15-20 degrees C, and at night temperatures of 10-17 degrees C. But there are still quite a few high quality stems for sale at the market

These dramatic sprays of orchids have thick, waxy flowers with five pointed sepals and petals (of approximately the same dimension) on each bloom and will last 2-4 weeks as cut flowers and 2-3 months as flowering plants.

The genus Cymbidium is available in a kaleidoscope of colours: white, green, yellow green, yellow, brown, pink, red, orange and have diverse markings and colour shades, different for each of the 44 species.

Cymbidium orchids and sweet potatoes design

Culinary uses:

The species Cymbidium hookerianum is considered a delicacy in Bhutan where it is traditionally cooked in a spicy curry or stews and called “olatshe” or “olachoto”.

Every week I add a new design with related tutorials. Be sure to subscribe to receive an email notification with design inspiration.