Cymbidium Helen Bannerman is a registered grex arising from Cymbidium canaliculatum Cymbidium madidum (registered 24 February 1966; registrant Mrs B. P. Cooper; originator Bronsdon). Note: this grex was previously recorded under the name Cymbidium Little Black Sambo and is now listed as Cymbidium Helen Bannerman in current registers. Plants are for pot culture only and typically produce dusky to mahogany/olive-toned flowers with a contrasting patterned lip; spikes are arching to cascading and the growth is robust under intermediate to warm conditions.

Key Characteristics

• Flower size: Medium (approx. 6-8 cm)
• Flower colour & pattern: Brown-mahogany to olive/green tones with a contrasting, often marked lip
• Spike habit: Arching to cascading; multiple flowers per spike
• Blooming season: Spring to early summer (Southern Hemisphere)
• Plant size: Medium to large (mature clumps can reach ~70-90 cm leaf span)
• Growth habit: Clumping with upright foliage; can show wider spacing between pseudobulbs
• Fragrance: Light to noticeable fragrance possible
• Flower count per spike: Typically 15-30
• Bloom longevity: Around 4-6 weeks under good culture

Care Notes

• Position: Bright filtered light or gentle morning sun
• Water: Water well during active growth; reduce in cooler months
• Potting: Free-draining orchid mix; pot culture only (never in-ground)
• Feeding: Fortnightly during growth; switch to a bloom-supporting fertiliser before flowering
• Climate: Intermediate to warm; protect from cold, keep drier in cool spells
• Repotting: Every 2-3 years after flowering or when mix breaks down