Dendrobium spectabile

This incredible species has very interesting 3” flowers that appear to be from another world. Native to New Guinea and the Solomon Islands growing in mangrove swamps and up to 500 meters in elevation this hardy plant has strong upright pseudobulbs or canes that have a few study leaves at their apex. The flower spikes emerge from the sides of the pseudobulbs and have sturdy self supporting stems. The long lasting flowers have a mixture of colors including green, yellow, white and reddish-mahogany. The scent is reminiscent of honey.

This plant typically flowers in winter to spring . Grow in medium to high light and water as the potting mix approaches dryness. In winter water and fertilize a little less often keeping an eye on the pseudobulbs for any shriveling.

When listed in spike these may have spikes that are just starting to protrude from the sides of the canes near the tops of the growths or they may be more advanced. The photo with the two plants shows the range of plant sizes. These are larger plants with several growths, other flower spikes may emerge near the tops of the other growths throughout the year. We have seen these randomly flower in summer and fall. Truly spectacular!