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From late autumn to spring, cymbidiums produce stems clad in exotic, long-lasting blooms, in a choice of colours. These dramatic flower spikes can range from just 30cm (1ft) tall up to 1.2m (4ft). The long, narrow, evergreen leaves form arching clumps.

Cymbidiums prefer bright but indirect light. They are tender, so need to be grown indoors, where they like cooler temperatures than most other houseplant orchids, ideally 10–24°C (50–75°F). They do, however, enjoy a spell outdoors in late summer.

These orchids dislike high temperatures – keep them below 30°C (86°F) in summer, and at 10–14°C (50–57°F) in winter. Shade them from strong summer sun and take care not to overwater, as the roots may rot.

To stimulate flowering, give cymbidiums a few months outdoors in mid- to late summer. The distinct drop in temperature between day and night is the trigger they need to start producing flower stems.