"Specimen Size"

[Twyst]

When someone uses the term about an orchid reaching "specimen size," what precisely is implied? Old and large enought to bloom, or something else?

[Becca]

There is a wonderful article in the June's Orchid magazine that covers what exactly is considered a specimen. Is it possible to some how copy that article here for others to read?

[Shirley]

Twyst, Welcome to the Orchid Board. I'm sure you'll find it very helpful for any growing questions you have. There's always someone out there who has the answer for you.

I haven't read an "official definition" but as I understand it, a specimen plant is one that you keep growing larger and larger. So when it's time to repot you don't divide it but just keep going to a larger pot as needed and see how big you can get it to grow!! Those are the kind of plants that often take "Best in Show" from the judges with their myriad of blooms.

[kavanaru]

and the size of a "specimen plan" depends also on the species or hybrid, so it is not a clear definiton. For example, C. skinerii is a plant that tends to grow quite easy, and it is very common seen as a quite large plant, so a "Specimen" must be very very large!!! A species of Hybrids which is very slow grower, or normally has a small size, does not need to be very large to be considered a "Specimen". It is always a relative designation... (well, that's my way of interpreting the term )

There are some AOS Judges here in OB, they can for sure give you a much better definition...