O'Dowds Orchids — Cymbidium Black Forest 'Dark Spirit' x Ruby Eyes "Red Barron"
Cymbidium Black Forest 'Dark Spirit' x Ruby Eyes "Red Barron" is a striking, high-quality hybrid that combines deep, dramatic coloration with refined Cymbidium form. Selected for its rich, velvety hues and strong flowering habit, this cross produces large, long-lasting inflorescences ideal for collectors and floral designers alike. Medium sized cymbidiums in five inch pots.
Key Features
Flower Color: Intense, near-black maroon to deep ruby red tones with potential for darker throat and sepal/peel shading. Petals may exhibit subtle gloss or satin texture that enhances the depth of color.
Flower Size & Form: Generous, well-proportioned blooms typical of classic Cymbidiums; rounded petals and a prominent, well-defined lip.
Inflorescence: Multiple-flowered spikes with excellent flower count and good stem strength for display or cutting.
Fragrance: Mild to moderate, depending on individual plant expression and cultural conditions.
Bloom Season: Mainly winter into spring, depending on local climate and cultural practices.
Growth Habit: Sympodial, with robust pseudobulbs and healthy foliage; generally reliable and vigorous under proper care.
Culture & Care
Light: Bright, filtered light; morning sun or dappled afternoon shade. Protect from harsh midday sun to prevent leaf scorch.
Temperature: Cool to intermediate nights (50–60°F) and warm days (65–80°F). A distinct drop in night temperature in autumn promotes spike initiation.
Watering: Keep evenly moist during active growth; allow the top of the potting mix to dry slightly between thorough waterings. Reduce frequency after flowering and during cooler months.
Humidity: 40–60% ideal. Increase humidity with trays or humidifiers if ambient air is dry.
Potting Medium: Free-draining mix such as fine fir bark with perlite or charcoal. Repot every 2–3 years or when new growth requires more space.
Fertilizer: Balanced, water-soluble orchid fertilizer at half to quarter strength every 1–2 weeks during growth; reduce in winter.
Pests/Diseases: Monitor for scale, mealybugs, and fungal issues; maintain good air circulation and avoid prolonged leaf wetness.
Uses
Exhibition: Exceptional for show benches due to dramatic color and form.
Cut Flowers: Strong stems and long vase life make it excellent for floral arrangements.
Collections: A desirable specimen for enthusiasts who appreciate dark-colored Cymbidiums and distinctive hybrids.
Availability
Limited quantities available through O'Dowds Orchids. Plants are shipped nationwide with careful packing to ensure arrival in prime condition.
Care note: Slight variation in color intensity can occur with light levels, temperature, and individual plant genetics. For best performance, mimic cool-winter cues to encourage robust flowering.
Visit odowdsorchids.com for current availability and ordering.
O'Dowds Orchids — Cymbidium Black Forest 'Dark Spirit' x Ruby Eyes "Red Barron"
Cymbidium Black Forest 'Dark Spirit' x Ruby Eyes "Red Barron" is a striking, high-quality hybrid that combines deep, dramatic coloration with refined Cymbidium form. Selected for its rich, velvety hues and strong flowering habit, this cross produces large, long-lasting inflorescences ideal for collectors and floral designers alike. Medium sized cymbidiums in five inch pots.
Key Features
Flower Color: Intense, near-black maroon to deep ruby red tones with potential for darker throat and sepal/peel shading. Petals may exhibit subtle gloss or satin texture that enhances the depth of color.
Flower Size & Form: Generous, well-proportioned blooms typical of classic Cymbidiums; rounded petals and a prominent, well-defined lip.
Inflorescence: Multiple-flowered spikes with excellent flower count and good stem strength for display or cutting.
Fragrance: Mild to moderate, depending on individual plant expression and cultural conditions.
Bloom Season: Mainly winter into spring, depending on local climate and cultural practices.
Growth Habit: Sympodial, with robust pseudobulbs and healthy foliage; generally reliable and vigorous under proper care.
Culture & Care
Light: Bright, filtered light; morning sun or dappled afternoon shade. Protect from harsh midday sun to prevent leaf scorch.
Temperature: Cool to intermediate nights (50–60°F) and warm days (65–80°F). A distinct drop in night temperature in autumn promotes spike initiation.
Watering: Keep evenly moist during active growth; allow the top of the potting mix to dry slightly between thorough waterings. Reduce frequency after flowering and during cooler months.
Humidity: 40–60% ideal. Increase humidity with trays or humidifiers if ambient air is dry.
Potting Medium: Free-draining mix such as fine fir bark with perlite or charcoal. Repot every 2–3 years or when new growth requires more space.
Fertilizer: Balanced, water-soluble orchid fertilizer at half to quarter strength every 1–2 weeks during growth; reduce in winter.
Pests/Diseases: Monitor for scale, mealybugs, and fungal issues; maintain good air circulation and avoid prolonged leaf wetness.
Uses
Exhibition: Exceptional for show benches due to dramatic color and form.
Cut Flowers: Strong stems and long vase life make it excellent for floral arrangements.
Collections: A desirable specimen for enthusiasts who appreciate dark-colored Cymbidiums and distinctive hybrids.
Availability
Limited quantities available through O'Dowds Orchids. Plants are shipped nationwide with careful packing to ensure arrival in prime condition.
Care note: Slight variation in color intensity can occur with light levels, temperature, and individual plant genetics. For best performance, mimic cool-winter cues to encourage robust flowering.
Visit odowdsorchids.com for current availability and ordering.
