Dendrobium pulchellum

Dendrobium pulchellum is found in deciduous forests across Southeast Asia, including Assam (India), Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Thailand, Malaysia, Laos, Vietnam, and Yunnan (China). It typically grows at elevations of 70–2200 meters above sea level in open, deciduous forests.

Features:

• Growth Form: A large epiphytic or lithophytic orchid with erect, slender, terete stems that may reach up to 200 cm (6½ ft) long, eventually developing a purple hue with age. Stems are often covered in striped sheaths.

• Leaves: Linear-oblong leaves, cordate at the base, measuring 10–20 cm long; they are persistent though older leaves may eventually droop.

• Inflorescence & Flowers: Blooms from late winter to spring (Feb–July, peaking April–June) with lateral inflorescences emerging from leafed or leafless canes. Each carries 5–15 long-lasting, fragrant, waxy flowers, typically 7–13 cm wide (2¾–5″).

  • Flower colors range from white or cream to yellow, pink, apricot, or copper, often with contrasting edges. The lip is usually creamy-white, curled, hairy, and marked with two distinctive blood-red or chestnut spots.

Care Tips:

• Light
  Provide bright, indirect light—ideally partial shade, especially during the most intense light periods—to prevent leaf burn while encouraging blooming.

• Temperature
  During the growing season, maintain warm to intermediate temperatures (roughly 18–29 °C / 65–85 °F). In winter, allow a cooler rest period to help trigger flowering.

• Humidity & Airflow
  Aim for moderate to high humidity (50–70%) with robust air circulation to prevent rot and support healthy growth.

• Watering & Rest

  • Growing Season (spring–summer): Water generously, keeping the medium comfortably moist but not waterlogged.

  • Rest Period (winter): Significantly reduce watering—allow the medium to dry somewhat between waterings to encourage bloom development.

• Potting Medium
  Use a well-draining orchid mix, e.g., bark chips, sphagnum, or a combination. Mounted culture can also work well if you can maintain humidity and moisture appropriately.

• Fertilizer
  During active growth, apply a balanced orchid fertilizer (half-strength) every 2–4 weeks.

• Propagation
  Propagate by division during repotting—especially when the plant becomes root-bound—or by using keikis (plantlets). Ensure divisions have several healthy canes and roots.