Dyakia hendersoniana

This orchid is the sole species of the genus Dyakia, a monotypic member of the vandaceous orchids found only on the island of Borneo. First exhibited in London in 1873 and formally described by Heinrich Gustav Reichenbach f. in 1875 as Saccolabium hendersonianum, the plant traveled through several names, including Ascocentrum hendersonianum. In 1986, orchid taxonomist Eric A. Christenson recognized its distinctiveness and established the genus Dyakia—honoring the Dayak peoples of Borneo—placing this unique miniature under its modern name, Dyakia hendersoniana.

In the wild, it grows as a compact monopodial epiphyte in lowland and riverine forests. What makes it so impressive for its size are its upright racemes packed with dozens of bright pink, fragrant flowers—an exceptional display from such a small plant. With its colorful history, rare status, and show-stopping bloom spikes, Dyakia hendersoniana remains a prized treasure for collectors who enjoy orchids with both beauty and story.

We have found this species grows well in a small bark mix or New Zealand sphagnum moss.