Aliases: Old, blue, old, blue
Ecological Characteristics:
Muran has large and attractive leaves, typically measuring 2-4.2 cm in width and 25-80 cm in length. Each pseudobulb usually bears 2-5 leaves, which are sword-shaped and spread out at the top. The pseudobulbs are large, oval, and range from 1.5 to 2.5 cm in diameter. They are long and thick, with glossy leaves that have smooth edges without any serrations.
The pedicel stands upright and is positioned above the leaf sheath. The inflorescence can bear more than 5 to 20 flowers, with small buds clustered at the base. The flowers measure about 2.5 to 5 cm in diameter. The sepals and petals are often narrowly lanceolate, with a sagittate (arrowhead-shaped) flap. The flowers are predominantly purplish-brown with dark purple-brown stripes.
From late autumn through March of the following year, Muran blooms and emits a sweet fragrance, making it a popular choice for indoor decoration during this time.
Origin and Distribution:
Muran is mainly found in provinces such as Fujian, Guangdong, Guangxi, Yunnan, Sichuan, Hainan, and Taiwan. It thrives in areas with high humidity and well-drained, slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5–6.5). This orchid prefers shaded environments, growing under dense canopy cover up to 90% shade.
Growth Habits:
Muran requires consistent moisture and rich organic matter in the soil. It is commonly cultivated in pots using a mix of decomposed bark, peat, and composted materials. Watering should be done carefully, avoiding direct tap water to prevent mineral buildup. In summer, watering once daily is recommended, while in winter, it should be done every 4–5 days. Maintaining a moderate room temperature is important, as excessive heat can lead to weak growth in spring.
Fertilization should be applied monthly during the growing season. In the fall, it's crucial to reduce watering to prevent the soil from becoming too wet during the winter months.
Varieties:
Muran is a perennial plant with 4–5 leaves clustered on elliptical pseudobulbs. The leaves are sword-like and dark green. The flowering stems rise above the leaves, bearing 7–17 blossoms. Popular varieties include "Autumn List," "Akiyoshi," "Small Ink," "Huizhou Ink," "Phnom Penh Muran," and "Silver Border Muram." In Taiwan, notable cultivars include "Famous Name Three," "Yu Tao," "Great Tuen Kylin," "Guoxiang Peony," "Qihua Green Cloud," "Eighteen Jiao," "Taoji," and artistic types like "Bai Zhong Chuan," "Zhong Ban," "Damo Crane," and "Damo Swallowtail."
Cultivation and Breeding:
Propagation is typically done in August or September by dividing mature plants into 3–4 separate pots. This helps maintain healthy growth and encourages new development.
Applications:
Today, Muran has become one of China’s most beloved national orchids. In Taiwan, it is widely grown in homes, used for indoor decoration and as a gift for friends and family. It is a common choice for ceremonial potted flowers. Its flowering branches are also used in floral arrangements. When paired with magnolia, azalea, hemp leaf, and hydrangea, it creates a vibrant and elegant display, perfect for special occasions or home decor.
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