Cymbidiums are brilliant
- in both senses of the word. Strikingly attractive with a beauty that seems to shine, a natural cymbidium possess a degree of cunning cleverness that proves it's far more than just a pretty face. If you're sceptical, consider the following & decide for yourself. Essentially this member of the orchid family is one of a genus with a genius
- at least when it comes to pollination. Take a good look at the photograph & note the shape of the flower's lower 'lip'. It's the perfect landing point for a flying insect looking for nectar. & sure enough, before long a bee buzzes in & lands. As soon as it does, that inviting lower lip springs up & back like a trap. The only way the bee can escape is by crawling backwards out of a narrow gap. In doing so it brushes against the stigma which it pollinates (if it's carrying pollen). Then it wiggles past the stamens
- picking up pollen for another cymbidium. It's the old old story of the birds & the bees (but without the birds). Now our Bloom yellow & ivory cymbidium arrangements may well attract the odd bee
- that's how realistic they are
- but entrapment & pollination are not on the agenda. Because, although we strive for maximum authenticity, there are limits! In leaf-lined globe vases, they come all ready to display, straight out of the box.