Description
Name: Butterfly Orchid, Fireviex ‘Louise’ – Extremely Rare
Discover the exquisite Firevieux ‘Louise,’ a must-have for every orchid enthusiast and collector. This breathtaking butterfly cymbidium orchid features 5 bulbs and boasts a spectacular flower spike that showcases 7 stunning blooms, all beautifully presented in a 180mm pot.
Lovingly cultivated in the heart of the Mornington Peninsula, this orchid comes from a specialist with over 64 years of invaluable experience and deep knowledge of local growing conditions, making it perfectly suited for the Victorian climate.
A fascinating backstory enhances its appeal: In 1990, I acquired a flask containing this remarkable orchid. After carefully removing the platelets, I embarked on a groundbreaking experiment to proliferate the protocorms, aiming to transform the orchid’s appearance beyond the original clone. The original clone, named Firevieux ‘Hadfield Triply’ AD/OSNZ, was first cultivated in New Zealand and received an esteemed Award of Distinction from the Orchid Society of New Zealand. Embrace the beauty and heritage of the Firevieux ‘Louise’—a true treasure for your collection!
Cultural notes (intended as a guide only)
Location
- An easterly aspect is ideal for Cymbidiums, providing direct sunlight until 10:00 a.m. and filtered light afterwards.
- Position them under eaves, near a deciduous tree, on a veranda, or next to a fence for protection from wind and frost.
Watering
- Keep the compost for Cymbidium orchids moist, as it’s difficult to overwater if proper drainage is in place.
- Water well in summer, especially in the evening on hot days to promote flowering.
Spraying (we do not spray our plants)
- Orchids are hardy and resistant to most pests and diseases.
- To prevent issues, spray them with insecticide and fungicide after flowering, then monthly from spring to autumn.
- Avoid spraying when buds or flowers are present, as this may distort them.
Fertilising Guidelines
- For healthy plants, use one rounded teaspoon of White Hill Orchids fertiliser (our special formula for flowering plants) in a 200mm pot.
- Adjust the amount based on pot size and apply it four times a year, sprinkling it around the pot’s edge, avoiding the green bulbs.
- Please note: Only fertilize healthy plants. For weak plants, check the roots; if you find rot, trim it back to healthy tissue and spray with systemic fungicide before repotting in fresh orchid mix.
