Dendrobium linawianum fma. semi-alba

Dendrobium linawianum fma. semi-alba is native to China and Vietnam, thriving in subtropical broadleaf forests at elevations of 400–1,500 meters.

Features:

• Growth Habit:

  • An epiphytic orchid with shiny, knobby, slightly flattened green canes and clustered foliage—belonging to the flat-caned group typical of Dendrobium linawianum.

• Bloom Size & Appearance:

  • Each inflorescence bears 2–3 showy flowers, about 4–5 cm (1.6–2 in) wide.

  • Flowers are predominantly white, with the lip showing faint purple to magenta markings characteristic of the semi-alba form.

  • Highly fragrant, produced from upper stem nodes in late winter to early spring.

Care Tips:

Light

• Provide bright, indirect light or moderate shade.

• Avoid harsh direct sun to prevent leaf burn.

Temperature & Seasonality

• Thrives in a wide range from hot to cool temperatures.

• Summer warmth encourages growth.

• A slightly drier winter rest (without extreme cold) helps trigger flowering.

Watering & Fertilization

• Growing Season (Summer):

  • Water liberally.

  • Fertilize regularly to promote robust growth.

• Winter Rest:

  • Reduce watering from late fall into early winter.

  • Withhold fertilizer during rest.

  • Resume with nitrogen-rich fertilizer when new growth begins in spring.

  • Switch to high-phosphorus fertilizer in late summer to support bud development.

Mounting & Medium

• Suitable for both mounting and pot culture.

• Use a well-draining medium such as bark, charcoal, or sphagnum blends.

• Mounting improves airflow and mimics natural epiphytic conditions.

Propagation

• Division: separate pseudobulbs with roots.

• Stem cuttings: cut sections with nodes and place in moist medium under high humidity.