Winter in New Zealand brings a unique charm to our gardens and floristry. While many flowers rest during the cooler months, certain blooms thrive and offer vibrant colors and lasting beauty. One standout is the Cymbidium orchid, loved by florists and flower enthusiasts alike.

Why Cymbidium Orchids Shine in Winter

Cymbidiums are among the few orchids that bloom during winter, and they offer:

• Hardiness: They handle the cooler months beautifully, with some varieties even tolerating light frosts.

• Longevity: Their blooms can last for several weeks, making them ideal for arrangements that need to endure.

• Versatility: Available in a range of colors, from soft pastels to rich jewel tones, they complement many floral designs.

Choosing the Right Orchids for Your Bouquets

Not all Cymbidiums are created equal—but you can select orchids that will give you the best results:

• Firm, upright stems with multiple blooms: These stems hold arrangements upright and maintain their wow factor for longer.

• Delicate stems for a softer look: Softer or more flexible stems can still look charming, especially in intimate arrangements or indoor décor, though they may require gentle handling.

• Mix textures and colors: Combine orchids with seasonal foliage, such as eucalyptus or native New Zealand flowers, for depth and visual interest.

This approach ensures your bouquets are both beautiful and resilient, no matter the mix of stems you use.

Using Cymbidiums in Winter Arrangements

• Bouquets: Pair orchids with seasonal blooms like leucadendron, hellebores, or protea for stunning contrast.

• Indoor decor: A single orchid stem in a vase can brighten any room and bring elegance to a winter setting.

• Special occasions: Cymbidiums make sophisticated accents for weddings, anniversaries, or corporate arrangements.

Caring for Your Cymbidium Orchids

To enjoy your orchids for longer:

• Watering: Keep the soil moist but not soggy, letting it dry slightly between waterings.

• Light: Bright, indirect light is best. Avoid direct sun that can scorch the leaves.

• Temperature: They thrive in 10–24°C, perfect for indoor winter conditions.

Winter Flower Tips

• Seasonal blooms are more sustainable: Choosing flowers in season supports local growers and reduces environmental impact.

• Focus on vase life and stem strength: When buying or ordering bouquets, firm stems with multiple blooms ensure longer-lasting arrangements.

• Mix and match: Combining different textures, colors, and stem types makes your arrangement visually interesting and gives flexibility with availability.

Ready to Send a Winter-Perfect Bouquet?

At Flowers by Joanne, we select the best stems for your Orewa, Red Beach, Silverdale, and Whangaparāoa deliveries. Our winter bouquets are designed to be long-lasting, vibrant, and elegant, using locally grown Cymbidiums and seasonal blooms.

• Explore Designer’s Choice for best value and freshest flowers.

• Check your area on our Delivery Areas Hub.

• Need advice on arranging winter orchids? Our team is happy to help you create a show-stopping bouquet.

Author Bio

Written by Joanne and the team at Flowers by Joanne, serving the Hibiscus Coast since 1976. We love sharing flower care tips, seasonal inspiration, and beautiful arrangements for every occasion.