LAKE MAQUIRE CYMBIDIUM

Cymbidium Lake Macquarie (often spelled "Macquarie") is a registered hybrid orchid in the Cymbidium genus, popular among orchid enthusiasts.

Key Details

• Parentage: Cymbidium Pearl-Easter × Cymbidium Stanley Fouraker (registered by T. Price in 1985, originated by R. Vandyke).
• Notable Cultivar: 'Winsome' (sometimes part of a "Lake Macquarie" series), a well-known clone mentioned in orchid forums and collections.

Genetic Background

Major ancestral species contributions include:

• Cymbidium insigne (~33%)
• Cymbidium lowianum (~19%)
• Cymbidium eburneum (~17%)
• Cymbidium hookerianum (~16%)
• Others like Cym. erythrostylum and Cym. tracyanum.

These parents contribute typical Cymbidium traits: large, showy flowers with good substance, strap-like leaves, and potential for pastel or vibrant colors.

Characteristics (as a Typical Cymbidium Hybrid)

Like most standard Cymbidiums, expect:

• Flowers — Medium to large blooms (often 2.5–5+ inches across) on tall spikes, usually in clusters. Colors commonly range in whites, pinks, yellows, greens, or combinations (depending on the specific clone). Blooms are long-lasting (weeks to months).
• Foliage — Long, arching, strap-like leaves.
• Growth Habit — Pseudobulbs with terrestrial/semi-terrestrial tendencies; vigorous growers.

Cymbidiums are among the easier orchids to grow, especially for beginners. They prefer bright light, cooler night temperatures for blooming (often initiated by autumn drops below ~58°F/15°C), and well-draining media. Many are fragrant.

Lake Macquarie itself refers to a region in New South Wales, Australia, but this hybrid is a cultivated plant rather than a native species from there (native Australian Cymbidiums like C. suave exist in the area).