Zygopetalum Sweet Jade 'Sweet Cheyenne'

The fragrance of Zygopetalum Sweet Jade 'Sweet Cheyenne' often arrives before the flower is even in full view. It’s a complex, delightful scent—some notice hints of sweet hyacinth, others a peppery spice, and some even detect a crisp apple note. This is an orchid that certainly knows how to make an entrance.

This captivating hybrid is the result of crossing Zygopetalum Jumpin Jack with the venerable Zygopetalum Artur Elle. If we follow that family tree, we find ourselves in the cool, moist mountain forests of South America. The lineage is built upon foundational species like Zygopetalum maculatum, found in the wet, mossy highlands of Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil from 3,600 to 8,200 ft. It also includes Zygopetalum crinitum, a Brazilian native from elevations of 2,000 to 4,000 ft., and Zygopetalum maxillare, which often grows epiphytically on tree ferns in Brazil and Paraguay between 2,000 and 3,300 ft. These species thrive in cool to intermediate temperatures where humidity is plentiful.

The flowers of 'Sweet Cheyenne' are a striking display of contrast. The sepals and petals are a vibrant chartreuse green, overlaid with bold, irregular blotches of a deep maroon-brown. This dramatic pattern provides a perfect frame for the broad, velvety lip, which is predominantly a clean, bright white, artistically splashed and veined with a shocking violet-purple at its center. The waxy, substantial flowers are about 3 in. across and are held on an upright inflorescence that emerges from the base of the newest pseudobulb, typically during the spring and fall.

Botanically, the plant is quite robust. It features ovoid, slightly compressed pseudobulbs that are smooth and green. From the apex of each pseudobulb, two to three glossy, lance-shaped leaves emerge, growing up to 12-15 in. long. These leaves have a distinct pleated, or plicate, texture, reminiscent of a folded fan. The entire plant can reach a height of about 12 in., forming a handsome clump as it matures. The root system is vigorous and appreciates consistent moisture, a nod to its cloud forest ancestry.

Care Instructions

Light: Provide bright, indirect light. An east-facing window or a shaded south-facing window is ideal. Leaves should be a light, grassy green; dark green leaves suggest insufficient light, while a yellowish cast indicates too much direct sun.

Water: Zygopetalum hybrids prefer to remain evenly moist, not soggy. Water thoroughly when the top inch of the potting medium begins to feel dry. Wrinkled or accordion-like foliage is often a sign of insufficient water. Reduce watering slightly during the cooler winter months.

Temperature: Cool to intermediate temperatures are preferred. Day temperatures should range from 70-80°F, with a nighttime drop to 55-65°F. This diurnal temperature shift is beneficial for initiating flower spikes.

Humidity: Aim for 50-70% humidity. Good air circulation is crucial to prevent leaf spotting, especially in cooler, damp conditions.

Potting Medium: A moisture-retentive but well-draining mix is essential. A fine-grade fir bark mixture with perlite and charcoal or a blend including sphagnum moss works well. Repot every two years or so in the spring, just as new growth is beginning.

Grown in 4" pots.