About

Dendrobium smillieae, the bottle-brush orchid, is a large epiphytic orchid from tropical Queensland and New Guinea with robust, upright, cane-like stems. Erect racemes 10�20 cm long carry 30�100 small, star-like, white-tipped, pale-green or cream flowers that open progressively from the base upwards. A striking and unusual orchid for a warm to hot heated 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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