Most species have a moderate to fast growth rate. The best time to plant is either at the very beginning of the growing season or after the orchid has finished flowering.
Common Name | Dendrobium orchid |
Botanical Name | Dendrobium spp. |
Family | Orchidaceae |
Plant Type | Perennial |
Mature Size | 6-48 in. tall, 6-48 in. wide |
Sun Exposure | Partial |
Soil Type | Moist but well-drained |
Soil pH | Acidic |
Bloom Time | Spring, summer, fall |
Flower Color | White, yellow, orange, green, pink, purple, brown |
Hardiness Zones | 9–12 (USDA) |
Native Area | Asia |
Dendrobium is a very large genus with hundreds of species, so it is difficult to generalize care needs since each species will have its own requirements. Generally speaking, though, the dendrobiums require relatively warm conditions, above 60 degrees but no more than 85 degrees Fahrenheit during the growing season. While some types of orchids require pruning in order to prompt reblooming, with dendrobiums, reblooming is likely to be prompted by a winter rest period, where the plant is kept at lower temperatures and water is withheld for three or four weeks. With some species of dendrobiums, only a single rebloom is possible, while other species may rebloom four or five times each year.
Dendrobium orchids make good houseplants and are fairly easy to grow, though they can be picky about their environment. Thus, paying close attention to their growing conditions is key for a healthy, well-blooming plant. In general, these orchids like small pots where their roots can be somewhat cramped, and they need to be by a bright window if you're keeping them indoors. Plan to water and feed your orchid often during the growing season but then back off in the winter months.