unknown orchid, possibly a zygopetalum hybrid?

[murphy48]

I'm really an orchid newbie so when I got this one, I got it because I thought it was really pretty. I didn't even think to look for a name! Since then, I've begun a little collection (how quickly one can become obsessed).

Fortunately I'm in Santa Barbara so I have found some wonderful nursery's (Santa Barbara Orchid Estate, and Cal-Orchids) and there is even an orchid fair in two weeks!

Thanks for everyone's help in identifying my orchid. I can now care for it a little better.

I'll post if I find out any more information.

[cneos]

Thanks Kristen. You might even be able to id your plant at SBOE. While they're best noted for their cymbidiums, they have quite a few zygopetalum hybrids and intergenerics in their collection. If you can't bring the plant itself, any of your photos would be helpful.

[ondy]

Almost certainly a zygopetalum hybrid with much less purple present than usual. The perfume is a sure sign in warm conditions and the shape. Almost impossible to name the actual variety.

[murphy48]

Originally Posted by cneos

Thanks Kristen. You might even be able to id your plant at SBOE. While they're best noted for their cymbidiums, they have quite a few zygopetalum hybrids and intergenerics in their collection. If you can't bring the plant itself, any of your photos would be helpful.

I went by SBOE today and they were not able to identify it other than saying it's probably a Zygoneria.

On the plus side, I walked away from SBOE with a Stanhopea tigrina that is in spike and about to bloom!

Thank you all for your help.

[cneos]

I've never been to SBOE but heard it's wonderful. What a great plant to leave with Stan. tigrina is a favorite. Wait until you get a whiff of the fragrance! Overwhelming! (We're not called orchhidoholics for nothing!)
You'll hear all sorts of 'old orchid-wives' tales as you get into the hobby. The one I like best about Stanhopea is that it blooms from the bottom of the basket because the beautiful flowers don't want to be seen next to relatively unattractive leaves.

Enjoy!