Antelope Dendrobium Orchids

What do antelopes have to do with orchids? Look at the graceful, spiraling petals on these tropical beauties, and you’ll understand. Antelope Dendrobiums are a popular section of the enormous Dendrobium family. Their upward-twisting petals inspire the antelope horn comparison.

Dendrobium lasianthera hybrid, antelope Dendrobium orchid with spiral petals, Pacific Orchid Expo 2012, San Francisco, CaliforniaAntelope type Dendrobium, flower with spiral petals, Foster Botanical Garden, Honolulu, HawaiiDendrobium stratiotes, antelope Dendrobium orchid species with spiral petals, Orchids in the Park 2015, San Francisco, California

There are several dozen species and a growing number of hybrids with these curvy blooms. Most all have sweet fragrances. Some have petals with a single twist; others boast elegant spirals, or ruffled edges. The species are native to rainforests from Southeast Asia to Northern Australia, concentrated in New Guinea.

Dendrobium lasianthera 'Septik Blue', side view of antelope Dendrobium orchid species flower with spiral petals, Orchids in the Park 2014, San Francisco, CalforniaDendrobium Memoria Kip McKillop, Antelope Dendrobium with spiral petals, Princess of Wales Conservatory, Kew Gardens, London, UKAntelope type Dendrobium, flower with spiral petals, Foster Botanical Garden, Honolulu, Hawaii

They are warm growers, and require similar care as their relatives, the Den-Phals. Give Antelope Dendrobiums plenty of water, morning sun, regular fertilizer, and high humidity. They don’t really go dormant in winter, but they don’t need as much water or fertilizer in the weak winter sun. Most varieties can grow into large plants, so they won’t fit on a windowsill. If you have enough space, these amazing orchids with a twist will add beauty and fragrance to your collection.

Dendrobium helix, Antelope Dendrobium species with spiral petals, Pacific Orchid Expo 2012, San Francisco, CaliforniaDendrobium Warawan 'Kanjana', Antelope Dendrobium hybrid orchid with spiral petals, Orchids in the Park 2012, San Francisco, CaliforniaAntelope type Dendrobium, orchid flower with spiral petals, Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, Papaikou, Hawaii

Explore posts in the same categories: Fertilizing, Fragrant Orchids, Growing, Photos, Warm Growers, Watering

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3 Comments on “Antelope Dendrobium Orchids”

  1. Marc Says:

    Find a list of Antelope Dendrobium species here – http://www.orchidspecies.com/spatulata.htm

  2. Christina M. Says:

    Fantastic pics. Plenty of great orchids and helpful info here. I am sending it to a few friends who love orchids. And certainly, thank you!

  3. Jeffrey Alvaro Says:

    Oh my goodness! Freaky orchids! Incredible post dude! Thank you so much!!