Wednesday Dec 06th, 2023
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Cycnodes (Cycnoches x Mormodes)

 

Cycnodes is another artificial genus produced by breeding Cycnoches but this time with Mormodes. This group of orchids is again an interesting breeding combination producing multiple flowers, vigorous growth and the possibility of flowering two to three times a year. Typically, their now trigger-less flowers have a flower life that is longer than for pure Catasetums.
 
Cycnodes are heavy feeders during their growing period but a dry rest period of differing lengths according to species is needed after flowering, specifically, once the plants start to drop leaves. Water is gradually reduced, then withheld. If at all, water sparingly only to prevent pseudobulbs from shrinking too much. Once new growth reaches 4 inches and new roots reach 2 or more inches long, watering is begun, with normal abundant watering taking place once the potting mix again approaches dryness. Fertilize well during the active growing season as the plant does not get a chance to be fertilized during its dry rest period. Cycnodes like humidity of 50-70% with warm day temperatures of 75-80 F (24-27 C) dropping 10-15 F (6-8 C) at night. Repot just as new growth is beginning at the end of the dry rest.
 
 
Cycnodes hybrids (Cycnoches x Mormodes). Interestingly the Mormodes is dominant for color and recessive for form and the Cycnoches is dominant for form and recessive for color. This type of breeding is remarkable in that these primary hybrids get the best qualities of both parents. Cycnodes hybrids have been proven a reliable combination giving excellent results.

 

(Cyc. Richard Brandon 'Xtra Wide Petals' x Morm. Exotic Treat 'SVO' AM/AOS)

 

Here we are on different path, in fact a new path. This is the first intergeneric hybrid using complex hybrids of Cycnoches and Mormodes. Richard Brandon (warscewiczii x Jean E. Monnier) produces robust-growing, easy-to-bloom plants. The cultivar ‘Xtra Wide Petals’ has the highest-quality well-shaped flowers seen from any Richard Brandon, and it is becoming an important parent in our breeding program. This Exotic Treat (sinuata x tuxtlensis) has amazing color, with bright orange-yellow flowers and bold burgundy spotting. As a bonus, mature plants can produce 3-4 flower stems at a time. We know from experience that this type of breeding combines the best qualities from both parents: the Cycnoches is dominant for shape, and the Mormodes is dominant for color. I am very anxious to see these bloom! The expectation is for well-shaped yellow to bronze flowers with bold burgundy spotting. ( Description and photos courtesy of Fred Clarke of Sunset Valley Orchids) grow

 

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