Types of Dendrobium Orchid

The most notable dendrobium orchids are Dendrobium phalaneopsis and Dendrobium nobile. Dendrobium phalaneopsis, also called den phal, is an evergreen orchid and is easy to take care of. Dendrobium nobile, which is referred to as deciduous, has a dormant period during the winter. They come in variety of colors, though most predominant are pinks and purples.

Species

• There are 1,200 species of dendrobium orchids. The family is classified as Orchidaceae and their subspecies is listed as Epidendroideae. Olof Swartz identified the categories of these orchids in 1799 and different orchids are still being added today.

Colors

• Though most of the dendrobiums are pink and purple, they come in yellow, yellow-orange, red and white. Yellow orchid species are Dendrobium chrysotoxum, Dendrobium bullerianum and Dendrobium senile, to name a few. They range in color from a bright, sunny yellow with thick blooms to a yellow with burnt orange blooms that look like daisies. Some of the white orchids are called Dendrobium anosmum var. alba and they feature medium-size flowers.

Habitat

• These vivid flowers come from Asia and the South Pacific. They are able to grow in low-lying areas, tropical and subtropical climates, and even in the cool Himalayan mountain range. Certain types of dendrobiums are native to Australia.

Lighting Requirements

• Dendrobium orchids are able to thrive on a light-filled ledge at home and some can even be grown under high-powered lamps. If there is a problem attaining growth, it can be solved by taking the flowers to a location that has more natural light.

Growing Tips

• Fertilizing on a consistent basis is required during the flower’s active period from February to June. The fertilizer should contain nitrogen and be a weak mixture. In June, these plants only need half the amount of fertilizer used during the growing season in order to reproduce more blooms later. Orchids that receive no water from the middle of November to January will flower in the spring.

  If the flowers are located in a very dry household or climate, it’s best to mist them once a month or douse them with water every eight weeks. For the growth period that beings in February, the orchids will need watering every week or two. Once June arrives, the blooms will need water twice a week. This watering pattern is the same for the dendrobiums in their Asian environment.