This week’s Orchid Wise Orchid of the Week is… Cym. Eaglewood ‘Memoria Takaki’
Parentage: This week’s Orchid of the Week is a cross between Cym. Zumma Boyd x Cym. Wyanga
Registered: 1981
The reason why it’s our Orchid of the Week:
Cym. Eaglewood ‘Memoria Takaki’ would have to be one of the most striking Cymbidium Orchid flowers there is!
Feathered or splash petal/sepal flowers are true mutations in the orchid world—and once you discover one, you’ll never want to let it go. Since they almost never clone true to form, the only way to acquire one is usually to beg and plead for a piece of the original plant. Consequently, their rarity often drives prices well beyond the reach of the average hobbyist.
Even more elusive is the green splash petal form, which makes it all the more desirable. In this case, the striking red labellum creates a brilliant contrast against the crisp apple green of the petals and sepals. Without a doubt, it’s a real showstopper!
This particular plant, Cym. Eaglewood, has some impressive genetics behind it—featuring well-known names like Cym. Sussex Dawn, Cym. Sirius, and Cym. San Miguel. Given that background, the cross always had promise, but in my view, the result has gone well beyond expectations.
Now over 40 years old, Cym. Eaglewood—like many older registrations—has largely faded from view and is seldom encountered today. Originally bred by Valley Orchids in South Australia, not far from where I live. I haven’t seen it in person, and unfortunately, I don’t own a piece myself. Still, if you ever happen across it, don’t hesitate—
Secure a division if you can!
This photo was taken from a facebook post from the Cymbidium Orchids Australia page, which is one of the more active Cymbidium pages on Facebook, so check it out for all sorts of information and wonderful plants.
Tracing this plant’s original species ancestors using Orchid Roots, Cym. insigne, Cym. hookerianum and Cym. lowianum are the major species contributors of this plant!