Lao Ran Zi Orchid: Antique Cymbidium Treasure (1821-1850) | Rare Plum-Blossom Type

Meta Description: Discover Lao Ran Zi (阮字), a legendary Cymbidium faberi cultivar since Qing Dynasty. Features short-petaled plum blossoms, curved lip & stable form. Grower's guide.

Lao Ran Zi (老染字 / Ruan Zi 阮字) One stem

Cymbidium faberi ‘Antique Dyehouse Character’

Origin:
Selected during Daoguang Era (1821-1850) by the Ruan family dyers in Jiashan, Zhejiang, China.

Foliage:

• Short-broad leaves (35-40cm × ~1cm)

• 8-11 leaves per pseudobulb

• Distinct arching growth habit

Blooms:

• Spike: Slender, above foliage

• Scape: Green stem with pale purple-red pedicels

• Inflorescence: 7-12 flowers per spike

• Form: Classic plum-blossom type (梅瓣)

  • Narrow outer petals with tight margins

  • Horizontally aligned lateral sepals (flat-shouldered)

  • Pouches: Paired large Guanyin hood-like petals (观音兜捧心)

  • Lip: Grand Ruyi tongue (大如意舌) with signature left-curved tip ("Steelyard Hook Head" 秤钩头)