Water
Water thoroughly when the potting medium is almost dry, reducing frequency in cooler months. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot. Ensure good drainage to mimic its natural rocky habitat.
Also known as Cane Orchid · King Orchid · Outstanding Dendrobium
Dendrobium speciosum, the Rock Orchid, is a spectacular Australian native orchid known for its large, fragrant flower spikes and robust pseudobulbs.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect light is optimal.
100% intensity
Avoid direct midday sun.
Water when medium is almost dry, reduce in winter.
100% intensity
Ensure excellent drainage.
A very well-draining orchid mix is essential, typically consisting of bark chips, charcoal, and perlite. It thrives in rocky crevices, so good aeration is key.
50% intensity
Prefers intermediate to warm temperatures.
100% intensity
Avoid frost.
Outdoor, Greenhouse, Indoor
50% intensity
Feed with diluted orchid fertilizer during growing season.
100% intensity
Reduce in winter.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the potting medium is almost dry, reducing frequency in cooler months. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot. Ensure good drainage to mimic its natural rocky habitat.
Pruning is generally minimal. Remove any dead or damaged leaves or flower spikes. Repotting is the main intervention, which can be considered a form of pruning for the root system.
Propagation is typically done by division of mature pseudobulbs during repotting. Seed propagation is possible but challenging and slow, usually undertaken by specialist growers.
Repot every 2-3 years, or when the potting medium breaks down. Choose a pot that just accommodates the root mass. Repotting is best done after flowering, in spring.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Rock Orchid (Dendrobium speciosum)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Dendrobium |
| Species | Dendrobium speciosum |
Similar in genus Dendrobium
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
