Laelia anceps is one of the ubiquitous orchid species to be found in a Central and Southern California orchid collection. Why? They are incredibly hardy, easy to grow, and flourish outdoors in a range of conditions. There are a plethora of colors, both from the original diverse varieties found … [Read more...] about Laelia anceps ‘Ruborosa’
orchid photo
A Triumph of Beauty: 10 exceptional alba orchids of 2020
This unique collection of orchid photographs emerges from a very unique year of orchid growing: 2020. That probably says enough for most people to understand. In addition to the human-related dramas of the year, we experienced some extreme weather to add to our orchid growing … [Read more...] about A Triumph of Beauty: 10 exceptional alba orchids of 2020
Cattleya (Laelia) jongheana fma. alba
The orchid portrait of Cattleya (Laelia) jongheana fma. alba is one of my favorites of this year ... but I might almost always say that for an alba form -- a particular love in our collection. We also grow the type color form of this species, and they are a stunning combination when in bloom … [Read more...] about Cattleya (Laelia) jongheana fma. alba
Dendrobium faciferum
Orange flares of flowers, in good timing to provide autumn pumpkin colors (at least here in central California). Dendrobium faciferum is a low elevation Indonesian species, found in the Lesser Sunda, Moluccas, and Ambon Islands below 350m (1150 … [Read more...] about Dendrobium faciferum
Cymbidium Devon Elf ‘Everglades’
We know that autumn is coming when Cymbidium Devon Elf 'Everglades' begins to spike. This late summer to early autumn bloomer (August-October, usually) is a favorite first of fall Cymbidium, after Cymbidium madidum and Cymbidium canaliculatum (and their hybrids, such as Cymbidium Mitzi and … [Read more...] about Cymbidium Devon Elf ‘Everglades’
Dendrobium speciosum ‘Aussie Gold’
Dendrobium speciosum is a commanding and unforgettable orchid species, especially if you have the fortune to see a specimen plant in bloom. Our Dendrobium speciosum, rather fortunately at the moment, are easily managed plants in 1 and 2 gallon pots. Suffice to say, when you comment that an orchid … [Read more...] about Dendrobium speciosum ‘Aussie Gold’
Horizontal orchid mounts: the benefits of “mini orchid logs”
We are always looking for ways to improve our orchid culture and create optimal growing conditions for our plants. Over the years, we have realized that growers sometimes attempt to simulate aspects of the natural environment while neglecting more subtle details -- which make a significant … [Read more...] about Horizontal orchid mounts: the benefits of “mini orchid logs”
Stanhopea tigrina
This is a special orchid portrait for a special orchid. On the morning of our 10th wedding anniversary, my husband went to the local farmer's market ... and came back with this Stanhopea tigrina in bud. You could imagine my surprise when the trip for cucumbers and oranges turned into a Stanhopea … [Read more...] about Stanhopea tigrina