The name for Dendrobium Orchids comes from the Greek word for TREE, “dendron”, and “bios” which means LIFE.
Specifically, Dendrobiums are a flowering seeds plant that is polinated through the air or wind.
Sun is a major concern
This is one orchid that may thrive in full sun, though they can also be grown in part-sun areas of the garden. For the most part, we have seen too many Dendrobiums with burn or yellowing to make this a wise choice. Again, we are near the equator and maybe the sun is just so strong at times. For us, some morning sun is ok, but as the sun rises towrds it’s peak at noon, you better provide some shade for them. Additionally, a lot of indirect light is fine. Presently, we are seeing success with them in an indirectly lighted space. Regardless, keep a watch over your plants and look for any signs of light stress.
Other factors to consider
Not surprisingly, our environment produces sufficient humidity to keep the plants happy.
Overall the WOMAN tends to the orchids and I assist. So far, she is doing a wonderful job and we have been keeping them long enough that changing out potting media has now become a necessity. She is even propagating them and adding more pots to the display. I think she is finding her pace with dendrobium orchids.
The genus seems to currenty have about 1800 species of plants. I mean really? Who can count? They are seemingly separated by subtle variations.
- Core Identification & Taxonomy
- Scientific Name: Dendrobium
- Common Name: Pigeon Orchid, White Dove Orchid, Pigeon Flower, Sparrow Orchid, Daun Sepulih Tulang
- Family: Orchidaceae
- Varietals:
- Habitat/Range: Tropical and subtropical Asia, the Pacific islands, as well as New Guinea and Australia
- Morphology & Characteristics
- Growth Habit: Epiphytic (grows on surface of another plant), or even Lithophytic (grows on rock surfaces), and finally endolitthic (grows in the cracks of rocks)
- Leaves: Smooth and Leathery, One to many leaves arranged in two ranks. Linear to Oblong. Never channeled or grooved.
- Flowers: Small or showy flowers dependant on species. Lateral Sepals are joined at the base. Flowering seeds. Polinates by the wind.
- Propagation:
- Notes
- Sun Exposure: Semi-shade to indirect sun
- Water: Very little watering required, once per week, High humidity 70-80%
- Fertilizer:
- Growing approach:
Not sure how to tackle the presentation of Dendrobium Orchids. Maybe in time something will snap and make sense in a sort of organized method. For now maybe Wikipedia has your answer.