The Coelogyne Orchids

The Coelogyne orchids are found across India, China, Indonesia and the Fiji Islands. The main centres for this genus are located in the Himalayas and on Borneo and Sumatra. Coelogyne orchids are not among the most commonly kept orchids so you might not find them in your local flower shop. One of the most well-known members of this group is the hybrid Coelogyne 'South Carolina' (C. pandurata x C. Burfordiense). This hybrid is commonly referred to as the Black Orchid since it has a black lip with an intricate pattern. Among the Coelogyne species, the typical colour is white, sometimes with shades of green, brown or peach.

Coelogyne orchids can be found in warm topical lowland forests as well as forests located high in the mountains, and the exact region will naturally play an essential role when it comes to proper Coelogyne orchid care. Some species will for instance require cool or even cold temperatures to flower, while others are used to fairly warm conditions.

Many, but not all, Coelogyne orchids needs a resting period each year. In order to carry out correct Coelogyne orchid care you need to find out the situation for your particular species.
Coelogyne cristata, Coelogyne ochracaea and Coelogyne pandurata will for instance need full rest, while Coelogyne massangeana and Coelogyne mooreana only needs partial rest. The tree first ones hail from environments with cool temperatures, while the second two live in intermediate conditions.