About

Dendrobium secundum, the toothbrush orchid, is a large, compact epiphytic orchid with dense, upright canes to 60 cm long. All flowers along the densely packed, arching to erect, one-sided raceme face the same direction � a striking structural feature. The small, 1 cm, pinkish-purple flowers with an orange lip are freely produced over the whole length of each raceme. A distinctive and ornamental orchid for a warm to hot greenhouse.

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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