Dendrobium cariniferum

Dendrobium cariniferum, part of the Dendrobium section Formosae. Found across Southeast Asia—Chinese Himalayas, Assam, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, and southwestern China—typically in montane, mossy, mixed, and coniferous forests at elevations between 450 to 1800 m.

Features:

• Miniature epiphyte with thick, hairy (hirsute) stems, carrying 4–6 broad leaves, which may also be fuzzy beneath.

• Blooms in spring on a short apical inflorescence with 2–5 fuzzy flowers, each fragrant—often described as smelling of tangerines or oranges.

• Flowers measure around 2 inches (~5 cm) across.

Care Tips:

Light

• Bright, diffused light is ideal—avoid harsh direct sunlight. Aim for approximately 25,000–35,000 lux for best growth.

Temperature

• Summer: Days around 25–27 °C, nights 18–19 °C (Δ ~7–9 °C).

• Spring: Days 29–30 °C, nights 11–18 °C (Δ ~11–18 °C).

• Winter: Days 24–27 °C, nights 8–9 °C (Δ ~15–18 °C).

Humidity

• Maintain 75–85% humidity through most of the year.

• Temperatures at end of winter to early spring should see a drop to around 60% humidity.

Watering & Rest Period

• Summer (late spring–early autumn): Water abundantly, keeping the medium slightly moist.

• Autumn to winter rest: Gradually reduce watering.

  • During deep winter rest (~1 month), allow the plant to dry completely between waterings. A light mist in the mornings can help avoid excessive dryness.

Growing Medium & Mounting

• Grows well mounted on tree-fern, cork, or similar media under high humidity, with daily summer watering.

• In pots, use a loose, fast-draining medium and repot in early spring after flowering, when new roots emerge.

Fertilizer

• Apply half-strength orchid fertilizer weekly.

  • Use higher nitrogen in spring–mid-summer; switch to higher phosphorus in late summer–autumn.