About

Dendrobium phalaenopsis, the Cooktown orchid, is the floral emblem of Queensland, Australia � a medium to large, erect, cane-stemmed epiphytic orchid to 75 cm tall with shiny, dark-green, oval leaves 8�15 cm long. Upright racemes 20�40 cm long bear up to 20 showy, long-lasting flowers 5�8 cm across in purple-pink to white with a darker, veined lip. One of the parents of many modern hybrid dendrobiums.

About the genus

Dendrobium are one of the largest genera of orchids, comprising epiphytic and terrestrial species from tropical and subtropical Asia, Australia and the Pacific. They produce elongated, cane-like or club-shaped pseudobulbs bearing linear to ovate leaves, and racemes of showy flowers from nodes along the stems, mainly in spring and summer. Dendrobium span a huge range of sizes, habits and cultural requirements.

Plant details

Suggested usesBorders, containers, naturalising in grass.

Care notes

CultivationPlant at appropriate depth in well-drained soil.
PruningAllow foliage to die back naturally after flowering.
PropagationDivide offsets or bulbils when dormant.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free. Monitor for common garden pests.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant. Ensure good air circulation.
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