Overview
Dendrobium secundum is a clump forming, columnar upright orchid in the genus Dendrobium, part of the Orchidaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Dendrobium secundum grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1a. Suggested uses include houseplants and conservatory and greenhouse.
About
Dendrobium secundum, also known as the toothbrush orchid, is a species of flowering plant in the genus Dendrobium of the family Orchidaceae. The common name refers to the fact that all the flowers are on the same side of the stem, much like the bristles all on one side of a toothbrush. Dendrobium secundum is a pseudobulb epiphyte. In the wild it grows across Andaman Is., Bangladesh, Borneo, Cambodia, Jawa and other regions. Grow it in full sun and partial shade and loam soil. In UK gardens it needs tropical warmth and glass protection in the UK (RHS H1a). It works well for houseplants and conservatory and greenhouse. It tolerates neutral soils, well-drained conditions and east-facing, west-facing, north-facing and south-facing aspects. Plant at appropriate depth in well-drained soil.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Dendrobium secundum
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Dendrobium
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, West-facing, North-facing, South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1a
Plant details
Dendrobium secundum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Orchid
- Habit
- Clump forming, Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Houseplants, Conservatory and greenhouse
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Dendrobium secundum
- Propagation
- Division, Keiki removal
- Pest resistance
- Scale insects, Aphids, Mealybugs, Red spider mite
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Dendrobium secundum?
Dendrobium secundum prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Dendrobium secundum need?
Dendrobium secundum grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Dendrobium secundum hardy in the UK?
Dendrobium secundum has an RHS hardiness rating of H1a, meaning it needs tropical warmth above 15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Dendrobium secundum?
Division, Keiki removal.
More in the Dendrobium genus
- Dendrobiumdendrobium
- Dendrobium amplumblack-tongued orchid
- Dendrobium aphrodite
- Dendrobium bracteosum
- Dendrobium bullenianum
- Dendrobium bursigerum
- Dendrobium christyanum 'Lillian'
- Dendrobium chryseum
