AboutOrchids

Dendrobiums are one of the largest and most diverse orchid families. They include more than 1200 species and thousands more hybrids, with a vast range of colors, shapes, sizes, and growing conditions. The first 2 pictures below show the most common variety, the somewhat confusingly named Phalaenopsis-type Dendrobiums. No, they’re not Phals — they’re Dendrobiums whose blooms resemble Phals in shades of pink, purple, and white. These are popular as cut flowers and great in leis, but usually not fragrant.

Australian Dendrobiums, like the next 3 photos, are also popular. Many have rich fragrances. With their incredible diversity, Dendrobiums exemplify the deficiency of one-size-fits-all orchid care instructions. Some grow in hot, steamy jungles, while others grow on cold, windy mountains. As natives to a huge area, from India east to Japan, Australia, and the South Pacific, no single recipe can cover their care. However, they do share commonalities. Most want bright light with morning sun, good humidity, and winter dormancy.

Dendrobium plants come in many forms, but they most commonly have tall, thick plant stems called pseudobulbs or canes. In the next photo, lovely white and purple flowers bloom atop the canes of a Nobile type Dendrobium. Nobile types may drop all their leaves over winter, causing inexperienced growers to think a plant is dead and discard it. Ironically, some kinds flower after they drop their leaves, and their brilliant colors stand out on the bare canes. Other varieties have twisted petals or masses of brilliantly hued blooms.

There’s certainly no shortage of astonishing shapes and colors in the Dendrobium family. They’re true tropical beauties.

Explore posts in the same categories: Dormancy, Fragrant Orchids, Growing, Photos

This entry was posted on Saturday, December 3rd, 2011 at 11:32 pm and is filed under Dormancy, Fragrant Orchids, Growing, Photos.

Subscribe to the About Orchids Blog:

Both comments and pings are currently closed.