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Dendrobium speciosum

Dendrobium speciosum

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Dendrobium speciosum is a highly variable orchid native to eastern Australia, thriving both as an epiphyte (on tree trunks or branches) and as a lithophyte (on rocks and cliff faces). It grows across a broad range—from New South Wales and Queensland down to Victoria—at elevations from sea level up to around 900 m. In the wild, it often forms large colonies, anchoring with sprawling roots exposed to full sun.

Features:

This sympodial orchid features cylindrical or tapered pseudobulbs that can reach up to 1.8 m in length, adorned with leathery leaves that may persist for up to 12 years. It produces showy flower racemes—ranging from 50 mm to 800 mm long—bearing anywhere from just a few to over two hundred waxy blossoms, 12–70 mm long, often white to bright yellow with reddish-purple spotted or streaked lips. Flowering typically occurs between late winter and spring (August–October in Australia), though some varieties bloom earlier or later. The scent is often described as hyacinth-like, especially when warmed by morning sun.

Care Tips:

Light

Requires very bright light to full sun, especially during winter when sunlight aids bud development. However, in hotter climates, midday heat should be mitigated to prevent sunburn.

Temperature & Humidity

Thrives across a range—from cool to warm conditions. Ideal temperatures range from about 50–55 °F (10–13 °C) at night to 70 °F (21 °C) or higher during the day. It handles both frost and heat reasonably well, though frost can cause defoliation and potentially delay flowering.

Watering & Rest Period

Water moderately year-round, especially during active growth—watering less in autumn and winter to initiate a rest phase. Avoid letting roots stay soggy.

Potting & Mounting

Performs well in a coarse, open growing medium (e.g. bark, charcoal mix) or can be mounted to trees or slabs, provided regular watering is maintained. Repot or refresh substrate every 1–2 years, ideally after flowering.

Fertilization

Benefits from regular feeding during growth—balanced orchid fertilizer at quarter strength with each watering is effective. Some growers use high-phosphorus formulas before blooming and switch to higher nitrogen during vegetative growth.

Pest & Disease Watch

Generally hardy, but watch for common pests like aphids or scale. Frost or sudden temperature shifts can weaken the plant and hinder blooming.

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