Vivi's Orchid Corner

April 2003 - Volume 8, Issue 4

"Cynoches - the 'Swan Orchid'"

Dear Orchid Friends:

These unusual species are found from Central America, Colombia to Peru and Brazil. Cynoches (SIK-no-kees) means "Swan's neck" and refers to the shape of the flowers' column and lip. Cynoches are relatives of Catasetums and are classified in the Catasetinae subtribe.

Cynoches are unusual in that they can produce male or female flowers which affect the method of its pollination by bees and insects. Botanists have identified that this species discharges its pollinia onto insects and bees, which they carry and pollinate other flowers.

Cynoches grow epiphytically and like warm, humid tropical areas. They attach to branches of trees and prefer a hanging position. Pseudobulbs are long spindle-shaped or oblong and bear several pleated leaves. The leaves are columnar or lanceolate shaped. Cynoches are deciduous, which means they shed their leaves at dormant periods.

Cynoches are generally classified as relatively difficult to grow. Beginners may not want to start out with these orchids. Because they have such a short growing period in their native environments, it's somewhat of a challenge to replicate the same growing conditions at home. They require strict growing and resting cycles.

WATERING: Strict watering cycles are necessary to maintain the growth and resting stages. Pseudobulbs store water for use in their growing season. In Central and South America, Cynoches grow in a short rainy season. Thus, during this growth cycle, Cynoches require an abundant amount of water. Water heavily when new leaves are forming.

When leaves begin to drop from the pseudobulbs, generally fall to winter, the watering must be reduced. The plant is now entering its dormant season. Keep the plant DRY and spray occasionally to prevent shriveling of pseudobulbs. Once new growth resumes, watering is resumed and increases as the plant growth progresses.

LIGHT: Cynoches are used to strong light levels. Light is extremely important during their growth cycle.

TEMPERATURE: Since these orchids grow in hot, humid rainy environments, they prefer warm temperatures. They thrive in temperatures 80-95°F. In some regions, night temperatures may fall into the 70's°F. they like warm summer temperature ranges. During their dormant period, they do tolerate slightly lower temperatures.

Humidity is important to the orchids. Thus, a hot, dry environment will not be conducive to their viability. Since these orchids thrive in tropical, rainy conditions, they also require good air movement. In their native environments, they hang or attach to trees where roots and pseudobulbs receive fresh breezes.

FLOWERS: Flowers are pendulous. Leaves and pseudobulbs are upright, nut flower stalks hang toward the ground. Flowers, therefore, are upside down. Inflorescences (flower stalks) will bear 30-50 individual flowers. Flowers are of good substance and waxy, and have their characteristic long "swan" lip that curves upward and out from the flower petals. A claw or hook is at the end of the lip.

Different species are differently colored. Colors range from pale yellow-green to coppery tan, and may have some speckles, markings or veining on the petals. The Cynoches ventricosum has a fragrant flower.

Some of the species include: Cynoches aureum, Cynoches ventricosum and var. warscewiczii, Cynoches cooperii.

Leaves of the Cynoches are prone to red spider mite infestation. A careful inspection of your plants is essential, and spray the plants to rid of spider mites with water or a miticide. Hang n baskets or mount on bark. Cynoches can be potted and like a medium that is rich and moist.

Cynoches are wonderfully exciting species. Hopefully you will have more luck than I have had. I now enjoy the fruits of someone else's labor!

Vivi