The Essential Guide To The Dendrobium Orchid
Botanical Name: Dendrobium
Common Name: Dendrobium orchid, Singapore orchid
General Knowledge: The Dendrobium orchid, originally hailing from various regions in Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands, is extensively cultivated for its exquisite and vibrant blooms, often used in floral arrangements, corsages, and as ornamental plants. These orchids are favoured in various settings, from homes and offices to events and weddings, thanks to their long-lasting flowers and striking appearance. A fun fact about Dendrobium orchids is that they have a unique adaptation to their environment; some species can store water in their thick stems, allowing them to withstand periods of drought.
Colour Range: Dendrobium orchids come in a vast array of colours, including pure white, shades of pink from blush to deep crimson, lilac-purple, and green. There are also many bi-coloured varieties such as pink/white, lilac/white, purple/white, and green/white, with some having green and purple throats. Additionally, there are dyed variations available in colours like yellow, red/yellow, and dark blue, but it’s important to be careful as the dye is water-soluble.
Australian Seasonal Availability: Dendrobium orchids are imported all year round from various parts of Asia, but they are also available periodically from Darwin, Australia.
Australian Wedding and Event Season Availability: Dendrobium orchids are a popular choice for weddings and events, particularly in the summer months, due to their exotic and elegant appearance.
Commercially Grown in Australia: While the majority of Dendrobium orchids are imported, there are some locally grown varieties available.
Imported into Australia: Yes, Dendrobium orchids are predominantly imported from parts of tropical Asia.
Buying Tips: Choose flowers where most blooms on the stem are open, with only the top one-third still in bud. Inspect for damage during transit, ethylene damage (translucent or dry blooms), and potential cold damage (brown spots on buds). Be wary of slimy stems, as this indicates overextended storage in water.
Design Tips and Advice: Dendrobium orchids are incredibly versatile and work well in both traditional and modern floral arrangements, sympathy designs, and bouquets. They can serve as either a focal or transitional element, and individual blooms and stems can be wired for more intricate designs.
Flower Maturity: Select orchids with a majority of open blooms for immediate use, as buds may not open fully once cut.
Expected Vase Life: Up to 3 weeks with proper care.
Typical Stem Length: 20–30 cm
Typical Bunch Size: Sold in bunches of 5 or 10 stems, it’s important to specify your preference when ordering.
Floral Preservatives: Use floral preservatives to extend vase life.
Ethylene Sensitivity: Dendrobium orchids are sensitive to ethylene, and exposure can lead to wilting. Treatment post-harvest by growers is essential.
Temperature Requirements: Dendrobium orchids do not require cool storage and should be kept at room temperature.
Avoiding Potential Problems: Avoid purchasing orchids that have been stored in cool conditions, as this can negatively affect their quality.
Special Care for Orchids: Orchids require special care and attention. They should not be exposed to ethylene, and wilted blooms may be revived by recutting the stems and placing them in warm or room-temperature water. However, wilting caused by ethylene exposure is irreversible.
Cooling and Cool Rooms: Dendrobium orchids do not require cool storage, and quality can be affected if they are stored in cold conditions.
Hydration and Vase Solutions: Keep orchids well-hydrated in clean water with floral preservative added.
Care of Ethylene Sensitive Products: Protect orchids from exposure to ethylene by keeping them away from fruits and other ethylene-producing sources.