3 Introduce of Chinese Cymbidium Orchids
3.1 Chinese Cymbidium orchids definitions
Chinese Cymbidium orchids in botony
Chinese Cymbidium orchids are a collective term for several terrestrial orchid species native to China. Botanically, it includes five species of the genus Cymbidium: Cymbidium goeringii, C. faberi, C. ensifolium, C. sinense, C. kanran, and three varieties of Cymbidium goeringii, namely, C. goeringii var. longibracteatum, C. goeringii var. tortisepalum, and C.goeringii var.serratum. Among these, Cymbidium goeringii is the most renowned and is prominently featured in the Orchid2024 dataset, which was created by the author and contains a significant number of images of this species.
In Chinese, the term for Chinese Cymbidium Orchids is often "Lan" or "Guo Lan." Consequently, the word "orchid," whether used in Chinese or English, typically refers to Chinese Cymbidium Orchids within China. As a result, in many contexts, including oral communication, written text, plant technology, and even academic translations from Chinese to English, the Chinese term for Chinese Cymbidium Orchids is often literally translated based on its pinyin to "Chinese orchid." Similarly, the Chinese term for Cymbidium goeringii is often literally translated based on its pinyin to "spring orchid."
In fact, I don’t believe there’s anything wrong with this. When I attended the second Spring Orchid exhibition to gather images for my orchid dataset, I noticed that the botanical term ‘Cymbidium goeringii’ was translated as ‘Spring Orchid’ not only in the exhibition but also in various news reports. Although, in a broader scientific context, it’s more accurate to use ‘Cymbidium goeringii’ to ensure precise identification and avoid confusion. However, I think it’s beneficial that the organizers used ‘Spring Orchid’ as a simplified or descriptive term for a wider audience who might not be familiar with the scientific name.
Cymbidium orchids, native to China, are esteemed symbols of strength, resilience, and nobility in Chinese culture. This reverence has spurred dedicated cultivation efforts, leading to the development of superior cultivars with sought-after traits, thereby promoting cultivar diversification. The cultivation of Cymbidium in China has a rich history, tracing back to at least the Song Dynasty (960-1279). The significance of this traditional "orchid culture" extends beyond China’s borders, influencing other countries historically touched by Han Chinese culture, such as Korea, Japan, and Vietnam, where Cymbidium is also held in high regard today[1].
I’d like to discuss the orchid2024 dataset that I’ve created. This dataset, however, does not include many Chinese Cymbidium cultivars that are cultivated in countries like Korea and Japan. The primary reason for this omission is the significant challenge associated with collecting a vast number of foreign orchid images.
Chinese Orchids in Horticulture
In the field of Chinese orchid horticulture cultivation, the term "Chinese orchid" actually covers a wider range of species than the botanical definition of Chinese orchids.
Several species belong to the genus Cymbidium, including Cymbidium cyperifolium var. szechuanicum, Cymbidium floribundum, Cymbidium hybrid, and Cymbidium lancifolium, among others. In the realm of scientific research and botany, these Cymbidium species are not classified as Chinese Cymbidium orchids, despite being considered as such in horticulture. This discrepancy arises because these species are not widely known outside of orchid growers or merchants, and they have not generated a mature cultivar system. Furthermore, the placement of some species within the Cymbidium genus remains huge debated among botanists, adding complexity to their inclusion in the category of "Chinese Cymbidium orchids"[2] .
Given this issue, we prioritize both professionalism and usability in the dataset: In Orchid2024, I have included images of four species: Cymbidium cyperifolium var. szechuanicum, Cymbidium floribundum, Cymbidium hybrid, and Cymbidium lancifolium. Each of these species exists as a category in Orchid2024. However, in accordance with botanical existing rules, I classify them as other species of the genus Cymbidium, rather than as Chinese Cymbidium orchids.
3.2 Various species of Chinese Cymbidium orchids
3.2.1 Distribution of Chinese Cymbidium orchids in China
Chinese Cymbidium orchids, under natural conditions, thrive in forests, hillsides, cliffs, and other orchid-producing areas that offer well-drained, well-ventilated, and semi-sunlit environments[3]. These orchids find their ideal habitat in the southern regions of China, where the rolling hills, verdant valleys, and abundant sunshine provide the perfect ecosystem for these delicate beauties.
In contrast, the northern regions of China often experience temperatures below 0°C during winter. These long, harsh winters can damage or even kill the orchids. As a result, Chinese Cymbidium orchids are seldom found in the northern areas of China. However, some hardy populations manage to survive in these regions, likely due to unique microclimates or human intervention.
As one moves north, the density of Chinese Cymbidium orchids gracefully tapers off. Unsurprisingly, the provinces of Yunnan and Sichuan, renowned for their diverse landscapes and suitable temperatures, boast the highest concentration of Chinese Cymbidium cultivars[4]. These provinces provide the ideal conditions for the growth and cultivation of these orchids.
In addition, the various types of Chinese Cymbidium orchids in China have distinct geographical distribution characteristics[5]. For example, in the regions of Hubei, Henan, Anhui, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai, the main species are Cymbidium goeringii and C. faberi. In Hunan and Jiangxi regions, there are mainly C. goeringii, C. faber and C. kanran. In Yunnan, Guizhou, and Sichuan, the main types are C. goeringii, C. ensifolium, C. goeringii var. longibracteatum, C. goeringii var. tortisepalum, and C.goeringii var. serratum. In Taiwan, Fujian, and Guangdong, the main species are C. kanran and C.sinense.
3.2.2 Meaning of Chinese Cymbidium orchids
Within the five fundamental species of Chinese Cymbidium orchids: Cymbidium goeringii, C. faberi, C. ensifolium, C. sinense, and C. kanran - each bears a Chinese name intricately woven with the tapestry of the seasons. These names not only identify but also reflect the unique characteristics and growth habits of these plants as they dance through the year's changing rhythms[6][7]:
- Cymbidium goeringii
- Chinese name: 春兰.
- Blooming time: January to March.
- Chinese common name: known as the Spring Orchid in Chinese, earns its name from its blooming period in the spring.
- Flowers: Single (rarely 2), fragrant, pale yellow-green with light purple-brown veins.
- Leaves: 4-7, strap-shaped, thin leathery, green to dark green, clearly longer than the flower stem.
- Cultivation: Cymbidium goeringii is the species with the longest cultivation history among Chinese Cymbidium orchids.
- Cymbidium faberi
- Chinese name: 蕙兰.
- Blooming time: March to May
- Chinese common name: known as the Summer Orchid in Chinese, earns its name from its blooming period in the summer .
- Flowers: Multiple (usually 5-11), fragrant, pale yellow-green with light purple-red spots.
- Leaves: 5-7, strap-shaped, thin leathery, green to dark green, clearly longer than the flower stem.
- Cultivation: Cymbidium faberi is one of the most popular and widely cultivated orchids in China.
- Cymbidium ensifolium
- Chinese name: 建兰.
- Blooming time: June to October
- Chinese common name: (1) four seasons orchid, named for some cultivars' long flowering period; (2) autumn orchid, named for some cultivar's blooming period in the autumn. (3) "建兰", it is named after its place of origin, the Fujian Province.
- Flowers: Multiple (usually 3-9), fragrant, pale yellow-green with purple spots.
- Leaves: 4-24, strap-shaped, leathery, green to dark green, slightly longer than the flower stem.
- Cultivation: Cymbidium ensifolium is one of the most popular and widely cultivated orchids in China. It is easy to grow and care for, and its flowers are beautiful and fragrant.
- Cymbidium sinense
- Chinese name: 墨兰
- Blooming time: October to March
- Chinese common name: Baosuilan (报岁兰), meaning "reporting the new year".
- Flowers: Usually 10-20 flowers per inflorescence, dark purple or light purple-brown.
- Leaves: Strap-shaped, up to 100 cm long, leathery, dark green.
- Cultivation: Cymbidium sinense is relatively easy to grow and care for.
- Cymbidium kanran
- Chinese name: 寒兰
- Blooming time: November to January
- Chinese common name: Winter orchid, named for its blooming period in the winter.
- Flowers: Multiple (usually 5-12), fragrant, pale yellow with purple spots.
- Leaves: 2-4, strap-shaped, leathery, green to dark green, slightly shorter than the flower stem.
- Cultivation: Cymbidium kanran is a challenging orchid to grow, but it is well worth the effort for its beautiful flowers.
The Chinese names of three varieties of Cymbidium, namely C. goeringii var. longbracteatum, C. goeringii var. tortisepalum and C.goeringii var. serratum., come from their own characteristics:
- Cymbidium goeringii var. longibracteatum
- Chinese name: 春剑
- Common name: Cymbidium goeringii var. longibracteatum, named for its sword-shaped leaves.
- Bloom time: February to March
- Flowers: 2-5 per inflorescence, pale yellow-green, fragrant.
- Leaves: 5-7, strap-shaped, leathery, dark green.
- Cultivation: There are many cultivated strains of Cymbidium goeringii var. longibracteatum, which is the top grade and has high ornamental value.
- Cymbidium goeringii var. tortisepalum.
- Chinese name: 莲瓣兰
- Blooming time: December to March
- Common name: 莲瓣兰, The term "lotus petal"（莲瓣） comes from the description of the shape of orchid petals. The flowers of the lotus petal orchid are similar to lotus flowers. In Yunnan, people are accustomed to calling the orchid "lotus" because its petals resemble lotus petals. The lotus petal orchid blooms every year on New Year's Day and the Spring Festival.
- Flowers: Multiple (usually 5-7), fragrant, pale green or white with light purple spots.
- Leaves: 5-7 strap-shaped, leathery, green to dark green, slightly longer than the flower stem.
- Cultivation: The well-known Cymbidium goeringii var. tortisepalum is disease-resistant and cold-tolerant, and is the source of sky-high-priced .orchids.
- Cymbidium goeringii var. serratum
- Chinse name: 豆瓣兰
- Blooming time: Its petals are shaped like bean petals, hence the name.
- Common name: Parrot green orchid, named for its green flower color with purple veins.
- Flowers: Single (rarely 2), 6 cm in diameter, strap-shaped, green or pale brown with purple veins, no fragrance.
- Leaves: 3-7strap-shaped, with serrated edges, slightly hard.
- Cultivation: The planting habits of Cymbidium goeringii var. serratum are the same as those of Cymbidium goeringii.
3.3 Debate on the History of Chinese Cymbidium Orchids
3.3.1 Ancient and modern controversies of 'Lan'
Orchids hold a special place in the hearts of the Chinese people. In China, they are often referred to as "Lan" (兰) or "Guo Lan" (国兰). This enduring appreciation is reflected in their presence throughout Chinese history, appearing in texts as early as the "Classic of Poetry(诗经)", a collection of poems dating back to the 11th to 6th centuries BC[8].
Yet, it was Confucius (551 B.C.- 479 B.C.), the great thinker and educator, who truly intertwined the orchid with the Chinese culture[9]. His travels throughout China saw him promoting his ideas of ethics and virtue as the ideal form of governance.Despite facing setbacks, his spirit remained unwavering. Legend speaks of a day when Confucius was journeying from Wei (卫, an ancient Chinese state during the Zhou Dynasty) back to Lu (鲁, an ancient Chinese state during the Zhou Dynasty). As he traversed a valley, he stumbled upon a sight of 'Lan' in full bloom. The valley was filled with their intoxicating fragrance. Yet, these beautiful flowers were surrounded by weeds. Overwhelmed by the scene, Confucius couldn’t help but express his emotions with a sigh:
夫兰当为王者香,
今乃独茂, 与众草为伍。This translates to "The Lan should be the king of fragrant plants, but now it grows alone, among the common grasses. It is like a virtuous person who is not appreciated by the world."
There is a question, however. While his talk about 'Lan' described its fragrant nature, Confucius didn't mention its appearance. For more than a thousand years after that, the term "lan" was widely used in Chinese literature to refer to aromatic plants, rather than being specifically associated with orchids[9:1]. Not until the late Tang Dynasty (900 CE) did cultivation descriptions of the orchids now known as Chinese Cymbidium orchids first appear in Chinese literature[10].
As interpretations of ancient literature related to ‘Lan' differ greatly. Many scholars, including literati, botanists, and pharmacists, believe that the ’Lan' described in the Classic of Poetry and by Confucius are distinct from those we know today[11]. However, the lack of absolute conclusive evidence fuels a counter-argument, with many others proposing that ancient 'Lan' and modern orchids belong to the same species. This confusion stems from varying descriptions of orchids over time, resulting in the classification of "ancient Lan" and "modern Lan". The Chinese botanical community refers to the "Lan" from the Spring and Autumn Period(770-476 BCE) to the late Tang Dynasty(618-907 CE) as "ancient Lan", and the "Lan" after the Tang Dynasty are called "modern Lan", which is what we now call Chinese Cymbidium orchids.
This debate about 'Lan', fueled by the immense ornamental and economic value of Chinese Cymbidium orchids, has persisted in China for nearly a thousand years since the late Tang Dynasty(618-907 CE), but it has not yet been completed.
3.3.2 Current status of relevant disputes
Differences in Lan is equivalent to Chinese Cymbidium Orchids
In the late twentieth century, several famous Chinese botanists conducted extensive research on the identification of ancient and modern orchid species. Based on their studies, they concluded that the 'Lan' mentioned in the Book of Songs and observed by Confucius in northern provinces of China(Shandong Province, Henan Province, Hebei Province) cannot be the same as the present-day Chinese Cymbidium orchids[9:2]. They think that from the perspective of morphology and growth environment, ancient orchids resemble Eupatorium japonicum more than Chinese Cymbidium orchids.
Eupatorium japonicum, commonly known as '泽兰' or '兰草' in Chinese, is a delightful herbaceous plant species that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is widely distributed in most regions of China and is recognized for its beautiful blooms during the transition of autumn and summer. The plant's small, yet exquisite flowers come in shades of pink, purple, and white and emit a potent fragrance.
The primary assertion of these botanists is that Chinese Cymbidium orchids are predominantly found in the mountainous regions of southern China, specifically between 25° and 34° north latitude. The spread of these orchids beyond 34° north latitude in northern China is challenging due to the absence of suitable climate and environmental conditions necessary for their growth[11:1]. Even during the era of Confucius, which dates back more than two thousand years ago when temperatures were comparatively higher, the regions of Henan and Shandong, where he resided, did not offer conducive conditions for the survival of these orchids. This view was proposed in the last century and has become the mainstream view in the Chinese botanical community regarding the origin of Chinese Cymbidium orchids[12].
Lan is Equivalent to Chinese Cymbidium Orchid
However, the way plants grow is much more flexible than we imagine. In a remarkable scientific expedition conducted in 2020, Chinese researchers stumbled upon a thriving population of over ten thousand wild Cymbidium faberi orchids. This fascinating discovery took place in the northern region of the renowned Qinling National Botanical Garden, situated in Shaanxi Province, China (specifically at coordinates 33°43′—34°04′)[13].
In fact, Cymbidium faberi is more cold-tolerant than other Chinese Cymbidium species. Cymbidium faberi can withstand various temperatures and a few degrees of frost. Most cultivars of Cymbidium faberi sustain damage to their flowers at temperatures below -5℃. However, some wild Cymbidium faberi orchids can survive temperatures as low as -10℃. This result is generally consistent with the characteristics of Cymbidium observed by the author at the National Cymbidium faberi Germplasm Cymbidium Resource Center of Hunan Horticultural Research Institute.
Two years later, in 2022, China's leading botanical research institution confirmed the existence of wild Cymbidium faberi orchids within the confines of Yangcheng, a city located in Shanxi Province[14]. These orchids were found within a national-level nature reserve spanning from latitude 35°12'50'' to 35°17'. It is worth noting that Yangcheng County also restored the Juelan Stele(绝兰碑) erected in 1810[15], which records and praises the then county magistrate Qin Weijun(秦维俊). He took the risk of offending superior officials by deciding that the local people did not need to risk their lives to dig up Cymbidium faberi orchids for tribute.
Furthermore, with the widespread use of computers, people have discovered that Qu Yuan(340 BC – 278 BC) a Chinese poet and aristocrat, described a lot about 'Lan' in his Chu Ci. For instance, Qu Yuan once mentioned the seasonal differences of 'Lan' , specifically, the 'Lan' of spring and autumn:
春兰兮秋菊，长无绝兮终古秋兰兮青青，绿叶兮紫茎The autumn orchid described in his poem has "green leaves and purple stems, and a fragrant fragrance(秋兰兮青青，绿叶兮紫茎)", which many people believe is not a true portrayal of Chinese Cymbidium orchids. However, there are some cultivars of Chinese Cymbidium Orchids with green and purple stems. For exmaple: similar characteristics also appear in some cultivars of Cymbidium ensifolium(autumn orchid) and Cymbidium sinense.
Summarize
Though the precise origins and classification of ancient and modern Lan remain debated, there's no denying the profound impact these graceful orchids, prized for their delicate blooms and intoxicating fragrance, have had on Chinese culture and history. As we unveil new knowledge about their geographic spread and ecological niche within China, we must prioritize their protection and champion the harmonious co-existence between human activities and the preservation of their natural habitats.
3.4 Creation background of the Orchid2024 dataset
Chinese Cymbidium orchids, with their delicate beauty and rich cultural significance, have captivated hearts for millennia. In Chinese culture, they symbolize virtues like integrity, modesty, and nobility. Confucius himself revered them as the "Gentleman of Noble Virtue" and the "King of Fragrance." However, their very allure has fueled a dark side. Price speculation and rapid overcollection, driven by their rarity, beauty, fragrance, and perceived pharmaceutical potential, have pushed many species to the brink of extinction[16]. Habitat loss further exacerbates this threat. While China boasts a thousands-year-old tradition of Cymbidium cultivation, harnessing these orchids for their full potential remains surprisingly underdeveloped. This disconnect between cultural reverence and sustainable utilization creates a precarious situation for these treasured plants.
In order to collect and preserve orchid plants represented by Orchids Chinese Cymbidium orchids, China has established 6 national ornamental plants germplasm resource centerfor genus Cymbidium. The following is a summary of these resource centers:
| Province | Germplasm resource center | Genus (Cymbidium) | species or cultivars number |
|---|---|---|---|
| 福建 Fujian | 福建省连城县连城兰花股份有限公司家国兰种质资源库 National Cymbidium Germplasm Resource Center of Fujian Liancheng Orchid Co., Ltd. | 兰属 Cymbidium | 250 |
| 广东 Guangdong | 广东省汕头市澄海区广东远东国兰股份兰属有限公司国家国兰种质资源库 National Cymbidium Germplasm Resource Center of Guangdong Yuandong Guolan Co., Ltd. | 兰属 Cymbidium | 1380 |
| 广东 Guangdong | 广东省广州市白云区广东省农业科学院国家蝴蝶兰、墨兰种质资源库 National Phalaenopsis and Cymbidium sinense Germplasm Resource Center of Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences | 蝴蝶兰属、兰属等 Phalaenopsis, Cymbidium | 1264 |
| 云南 Yunan | 云南省昆明市盘龙区云南野生兰收藏基地有限公司国家兰属种质资源库 National Cymbidium Germplasm Resource Center of Yunnan Wild Orchid Collection Base Co., Ltd | 兰属 Cymbidium | 580 |
| 江苏 Jiangsu | 江苏省扬州市农业科学研究院国家春兰属、蕙兰种质资源库 National Cymbidium goeringii and Cymbidium faberi Germplasm Resource Center of Jiangsu Lixiahe District Institute of Agricultural Sciences | 春兰、蕙兰 Cymbidium | 622 |
| 湖南 Hunan | 湖南省园艺研究所国家蕙兰种质资源库 National Cymbidium faberi Germplasm Cymbidium Resource Center of Hunan Horticultural Research Institute | 兰属 Cymbidium | 1000 |
Despite China's centuries-long tradition of Cymbidium cultivation, the exact number of cultivated varieties remains shrouded in mystery. Numerous cultivars thrive across the country, but many lack formal documentation or clear classification. This ambiguity, further amplified by regional cultivation practices and potential name duplications, makes comprehensive resource collection and protection a formidable challenge. Precise estimates vary, with some sources citing figures between 1,000 and 3,000 cultivars[17].
Therefore, determining the appearance of these orchids and accurately identifying individual cultivars are essential steps in preserving this rich botanical heritage. Some examples of why this is important:
Preventing Illegal Trade: Recognizing the appearance of these orchids and distinguishing them from similar cultivars simplifies the process of identifying and halting illegal trade. This is also vital for the protection of endangered cultivars.
Monitoring Populations: The accurate identification and tracking of individual cultivars enable researchers to monitor orchid populations over time, evaluate their health, and identify potential threats. This data is crucial for the formulation of conservation strategies.
Targeted Management: Different orchid cultivars may have unique needs and vulnerabilities. Knowledge of the exact type of orchid allows for targeted conservation efforts, such as customized habitat restoration or breeding programs.
Drawing on data from the National Cymbidium faberi Germplasm and Cymbidium Resource Center at the Hunan Horticultural Research Institute, I created the Orchids2024 dataset, boasting over 150,000 images and encompassing over 1,200 cultivars of Chinese Cymbidium orchids. With this data, I developed an image classification system for identifying and classifying these cultivars, which can be used by researchers, orchid growers, and enthusiasts to enhance conservation efforts and cultivar development.
The cultivar resource image datasets and image classification systems of Chinese Cymbidium orchids are transforming germplasm resource centers, empowering researchers and breeders to unlock the full potential of plant diversity. These tools go beyond simply storing physical samples; they provide a powerful lens to deep-dive into cultivar characteristics, optimize germplasm management, and ultimately accelerate the development of sustainable crops for the future.
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Hew, Choy Sin, and Yik Suan Wong. Chinese Cymbidium Orchid: A Gentleman of Noble Virtue. World Scientific, 2023. ↩︎ ↩︎
Things about orchids. https://www.cas.cn/kxcb/kpwz/201401/t20140122_4026669.shtml. Accessed 1 Jan. 2024. ↩︎
Qinling National Botanical Garden discovers China's northernmost wild cymbidium population. www.qinlingbg.com/?p=1868. Accessed 1 Jan. 2024. ↩︎
Shanxi Yangcheng Manghe Macaque National Nature Reserve. https://www.thepaper.cn/newsDetail_forward_24988570. Accessed 1 Jan. 2024. ↩︎
Manghe Ecological Tourism Area. www.yczf.gov.cn/yryc/ycmp/202306/t20230602_1804073.shtml. Accessed 1 Jan. 2024. ↩︎
Seyler, Barnabas C., et al. "Understanding knowledge threatened by declining wild orchid populations in an urbanizing China (Sichuan)." Environmental Conservation 46.4 (2019): 318-325. ↩︎
Xu, W., et al. "Advances in genetic resources and breeding research of Cymbidium." Acta Horticulturae Sinica 49 (2022): 2722-42. ↩︎