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)
Basic Info
Origin
diverse habitats throughout much of south, east and southeast Asia
Lifespan
15+ years
Size
20-60cm
Temperature
5〜30℃（適温15〜25℃）
Humidity
50〜70%
Watering & Fertilizer
Liquid fertilizer biweekly spring-summer. Stop feeding in fall
Growing Tips
Placement
Outdoors with 30-50% shade spring-fall. Bright indoors in winter
Bud Initiation
Requires 1+ months exposure to 5-10°C in fall to set flower buds
Keiki Prevention
Insufficient cold produces keikis (plantlets) instead of flower buds
Notes
Sensitive to overwatering. Water only when pot feels light
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 5〜30℃（適温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 ボタちょく's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
Growing Specifications
- USDA Zone
- 9–12
Sources: Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder: Dendrobium (group) (Zone 9 to 12)
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: BoTachoku 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 蘭交配種登録(International Orchid Register) · AOS(米国蘭協会)
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
ラン科 Orchidaceae は科全体が CITES 附属書II（附属書I 該当の Paphiopedilum 属・Phragmipedium 属および特定種を除く）。栽培品種・交配種も科の規制を受けるが、人工繁殖個体は附属書により取引が簡略化される場合がある。
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 Dendrobium Growing Guide — Autumn Management for Flower Spike Formation and Year-Round Care
How to grow Dendrobium orchids for annual blooms: autumn cold treatment, restricted watering, fertilizing timing, repotting cycles, and care differences between 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 Sekikoku (Chouseilan) — Basics for Enjoying Japan's Traditional Oriental Orchids
A practical guide covering the characteristics of Sekikoku (Dendrobium moniliforme, also called chouseilan), planting options including sphagnum moss, hegoa, and stone-mounted styles, seasonal placement, watering and fertilizing, flowering tips, propagation methods via division and keiki (aerial plantlets), and pest management.
Dendrobium Phalaenopsis Care Guide | Tips for Enjoying Long-Lasting Cluster Blooms with Year-Round Warm Management
Explains the characteristics of Denfale, a warm-climate hybrid of Dendrobium, differences from Nobile-type, temperature, watering, and fertilizer management, and how to propagate using keiki.