Cyc. Bronze Vixen 'Cool' x Cyc. Richard Brandon 'Bronze'

Metallic Gloss and Dark Spice in a Compact Swan Orchid

A fresh Catasetinae cross bringing together two of the dark, glossy heavyweights of the Cycnoches world. It produces tight clusters of arching blooms with rigid, shell-like substance that look freshly varnished.

Each flower opens in rich tones of burnt bronze and deep mahogany, offset by a gleaming, sculpted lip in warm copper. The petals sweep back cleanly, giving the entire inflorescence the unmistakable stance of a flock of swans caught mid-flight.

The real show happens around noon when the flowers release a heavy, warm fragrance of allspice and dark chocolate that fills the room. Unlike standard Cattleyas that demand wide bench space, these pseudobulbs grow tall and slender, leaving a remarkably light footprint on the bench. They go completely dormant in winter, dropping their leaves so you can tuck them onto a dry back shelf for a few months while they rest, making them one of the most space-efficient specimen orchids you can grow.

Quick Care Guide

• Light: High filtered light, bright enough to keep foliage a light apple green during active growth.

• Water: Water heavily while in active growth, then stop almost completely when leaves drop in winter.

• Temperature: Nights 62–68°F, days 75–90°F. Warmth is essential during the active growing season.

• Fertilizer: Heavy feeding with a balanced orchid fertilizer once new roots are two inches long through late summer.

• Mature size: Pseudobulbs reach 10 to 16 inches tall; arching spikes carry 6 to 12 flowers.