About

Dendrobium superbum, the Anosmum dendrobium, is a large, deciduous epiphytic orchid with long, pendulous, cane-like stems to 120 cm bearing pairs of leaves along their length. In spring, clusters of two to three large (7�8 cm), richly fragrant, rose-purple to deep-pink flowers with a darker, maroon-veined lip appear from nodes on the leafless canes. Among the most fragrant of all 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.