About

Dendrobium senile, the old-man dendrobium, is a compact epiphytic orchid with distinctive, short, cane-like pseudobulbs densely clothed in long, white, hair-like sheaths � giving the plant a charmingly aged appearance. Yellow, 4�5 cm flowers with white-tipped petals appear in spring from nodes near the stem tips. A distinctive and rewarding compact orchid for a cool to intermediate 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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