Rock orchid - Dendrobium speciosum (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Rock orchid

Also known as: Rock lily

Rock orchid (Dendrobium speciosum) is a plant species native to the east coast of Australia. Rock orchid species are also known as ock orchids or cane orchids. This species is popular among orchid cultivators. Rock orchid attracts the stingless bee Tetragonula carbonaria. This orchid can be grown outdoors in mild climates and requires full sunlight for optimal growth.

Scientific classification

Species

Rock orchid (Dendrobium speciosum)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring

Bloom Time

5 cm to 1.8 m

Plant Height

50 cm

Spread

2 cm to 8 cm

Flower Size

Images of Rock orchid

Culture

Garden Use

Rock orchid is an exciting choice for orchid gardens and for planting in large tubs and barrels outdoors. The extraordinary size of the full-grown plants also make this orchid a fascinating specimen plant. In addition, this orchid thrives in medium levels of humidity and bright sun, and it’s easy to grow, so this plant has potential for many garden types anywhere where hard frosts do not occur.

Symbolism

Love, pure affection, refinement, satisfaction, respect, moral purity, innocence and perfection

Interesting Facts

In Australia, the rock orchid is commonly called the rock lily as it can grow as happily on a rock as in a tree. It produces a large mass of roots to anchor itself to its base. The orchid does not obtain nutrients directly from its host. Instead, dead insects and fallen leaves and flowers eventually decompose and nourish the plant.

Name Story

King orchid: The genus name for orchids, dendrobium, comes from the Greek words dendron meaning "tree" and bios meaning "life," as most orchids are epiphytes. Speciosum is Latin for "beautiful" or "showy," which the king orchid definitely is. It is one of the largest orchids and produces spectacular displays of flowers.

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Care Guide for Rock orchid

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Orchid Potting Mix

Soil Type

Water: Rock orchid thrives in humid environments, preferring higher humidity and moderate drought tolerance. Water weekly, ensuring the medium is nearly dry before thorough watering. It excels outdoors in dappled light, benefiting from seasonal rainfalls that reflect its native habitat's fluctuating water availability.

Fertilize: Rock orchid thrives with a balanced, high-phosphorus fertilizer for strong growth and blooms. Apply diluted monthly in spring/summer, then bimonthly in fall/winter, ensuring proper dosage to avoid over-fertilization. Watering before fertilizing helps protect roots and enhance nutrient uptake.

Pruning: Rock orchid features beautiful flower clusters and sturdy growth, needing minimal pruning from early spring to late winter during dormancy. Remove dead stems and thin dense areas for better air circulation, reducing fungal risks. Pruning promotes health and flowers robustly in the next season.

Propagation: Rock orchid is a captivating epiphytic orchid from Australia, known for its fragrant blooms. Propagation involves dividing pseudobulbs during repotting, ensuring each division has sufficient roots and at least three healthy growths for optimal growth and flowering.

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Images of Rock orchid

Culture

Care Guide for Rock orchid

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