This week’s Orchid Wise Orchid of the Week is… Cym. Serene Charisma ‘Pastel’
Parentage: This week’s Orchid of the Week is a cross between Cym. Fresh Charisma x Cym. Serene Splash
Registered: 2023
The reason why it’s our Orchid of the Week:
I think pastel Cymbidiums are, at times, a somewhat overlooked group. Typically, it’s the bold, vibrant-coloured Cymbidium orchids that steal the spotlight with their eye-catching appeal. However, pastel varieties certainly deserve recognition, as they possess a quiet beauty and elegance all their own. They sit quietly in amongst the group, waiting to be found!
In this context, Bryants Orchids have once again created something distinctive. Drawing from a rich lineage of well-known Cymbidiums found in the family tree. Plants like Cym. Joans Charisma, Cym. Hazel Tyres and Cym. Cronulla are all present in the background. And Cym. insigne makes up a whopping 39% of the species influence, which is quite high for a modern tetraploid.
Notably, the lip on Cym. Serene Charisma is soft and understated. This allows the rest of the flower to shine without being overshadowed. In fact, this lip reminds me of those on Cym. Green Opal and Cym. Winter Kiss, although it is just a touch more pronounced. The yellow calli contributes a warm appearance to the throat that compliments the balance in the flower.
While it may not appeal to everyone’s taste, Cym. Serene Charisma ‘Pastel’ lives up to its name. It offers a calm, serene presence that would contrast beautifully with bolder Cymbidium varieties in any hobbyist’s collection.
This photo comes courtesy of the Bryants Orchids Facebook page.
Tracing this plant’s original species ancestors using Orchid Roots, Cym. insigne, Cym. lowianum and Cym. eburneum are the major species contributors of this plant!