Source: Wikimedia Commons
Dendrobium
IntermediateDendrobium spp.
One of the largest orchid genera with ~1,500 species. Nobile type is most popular in Japan. Spectacular blooms along the entire cane. Winter cold treatment is key to flowering.
About
Dendrobium is a genus of mostly epiphytic and lithophytic orchids in the family Orchidaceae. It is a very large genus, containing more than 1,800 species that are found in diverse habitats throughout much of south, east and southeast Asia, including China, Japan, India, the Philippines, Indonesia, Australia, New Guinea, Vietnam and many of the islands of the Pacific. Orchids in this genus have roots that creep over the surface of trees or rocks, rarely having their roots in soil. Up to six leaves develop in a tuft at the tip of a shoot and from one to a large number of flowers are arranged along an unbranched flowering stem. Several attempts have been made to separate Dendrobium into smaller genera, but most have not been accepted by the World Checklist of Selected Plant Families.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Lifespan of the Dendrobium
The Dendrobium lives 15+ years.
Size of the Dendrobium
The Dendrobium grows to 20-60cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Dendrobium
The ideal temperature for the Dendrobium is 15〜25℃. Ideal humidity is 50〜70%.
Basic Info
Origin
diverse habitats throughout much of south, east and southeast Asia
Lifespan
15+ years
Size
20-60cm
Temperature
5〜30℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Watering & Fertilizer
Liquid fertilizer biweekly spring-summer. Stop feeding in fall
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
From spring to autumn, grow it outdoors under 30-50% shade, and bring it into a bright room for winter. Choose a well-ventilated spot.
Watering
It dislikes wet feet, so water once the pot feels light. Give plenty of water in growth and keep it drier during dormancy.
Temperature & Overwintering
It tolerates 5-30°C, with 15-25°C ideal. Flower buds need a month or more at 5-10°C in autumn to winter.
Soil & Repotting
Pot in bark or sphagnum moss. Keep drainage good and repot if the roots deteriorate or the pot becomes crowded.
Fertilizer
Feed with liquid fertilizer twice a month from spring to summer. Stop feeding from autumn onward and give it cold to prepare for flower buds.
Pests & Cautions
If the cold period is insufficient, keikis (plantlets) form instead of flower buds. Keep humidity at 50-70%.
Dendrobium FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Dendrobium?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Dendrobium?
The ideal temperature for Dendrobium is 15〜25℃. Recommended humidity is 50〜70%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Dendrobium?
The average lifespan of Dendrobium is 15+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Dendrobium get?
The mature size of Dendrobium is 20-60cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Dendrobium?
Dendrobium: watering & fertilizer — Liquid fertilizer biweekly spring-summer. Stop feeding in fall. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Dendrobium?
The price of Dendrobium varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 18, 2026
Growing Specifications
- USDA Zone
- 9–12
Sources: Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder: Dendrobium (group) (Zone 9 to 12)
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Dendrobium spp. Sw.
Synonyms: Dendrobium spp., Maccraithea, Australorchis, Distichorchis, Dendrobates, Euphlebium, Herpetophytum, Pedilonum
Authority databases: GBIF · POWO · RHS orchid hybrid registration (International Orchid Register) · AOS (American Orchid Society)
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
The family Orchidaceae is listed entirely in CITES Appendix II (except for the genera Paphiopedilum and Phragmipedium and certain species, which are in Appendix I). Cultivars and hybrids are subject to family-level regulation; however, artificially propagated specimens may benefit from simplified trading procedures under the Appendices.
Sources: CITES Appendices (Orchidaceae spp. = Appendix II) / CITES Appendix I Orchid Checklist (Kew/UNEP-WCMC 2019)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
Related Articles
Complete Guide to Growing Dendrobium | Autumn Management for Flowering and Year-Round Care
Explains autumn cold treatment, watering restrictions, fertilizer timing, and repotting cycles for year-round dendrobium blooms. Introduces management differences for both Nobile and Phalaenopsis types.
How to Grow Dendrobium nobile Orchids | Flower Bud Initiation Through Cold Treatment
Detailed guide to Dendrobium nobile characteristics, year-round care schedule, flower bud initiation through cold treatment, and management of unwanted shoots.
How to Grow Sekkoku (Chōsei Orchid) — Basics for Enjoying Japan's Traditional Oriental Orchids
A practical guide to the characteristics of Sekkoku (Dendrobium moniliforme, Chōsei Orchid), planting options using sphagnum moss, tree fern, and rock mounting, seasonal placement, watering and fertilizing, flowering tips, propagation methods including division and keiki (plantlets), and pest and disease management.
Denphale Care Guide: Tips for Enjoying Long-Lasting Cluster Flowers with Year-Round Warm Management
This guide explains the characteristics of Denphale, a warm-climate hybrid of Dendrobium, how it differs from Nobile types, temperature and watering management, and how to propagate using high growths.
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