Orchid from the Himalayas with fragrant white, pink, and purple flowers

Dendrobium nobile is one of the most widely distributed ornamental orchids. It is an epiphytic or lithophytic orchid from Asia. There, it grows in lowland and mountain forests, often on moss-covered limestone cliffs.

The orchid has a so-called sympodial growth habit and forms pseudobulbs. When a stem finishes growing, new shoots emerge from the base, and over time, a clump of stems is formed. The flowers are arranged along the stems, are waxy and fragrant, and vary greatly in color, from white to pink and purple. Flowering occurs during winter and spring.

Care

Prefers a sunny location with consistent watering and fertilization during the summer months. It can advantageously be placed outdoors in the summer in a semi-shaded spot, but should be brought inside when the night temperature drops towards 8 to 10 degrees.

The substrate should dry out between waterings, but on hot summer days, quite consistent moisture is needed for best results. Water generously during growth, preferably by submerging the entire pot in water. Never let water stand in the outer pot.

After the summer, a drier winter rest follows with little moisture, during which the plant often sheds quite a few of its leaves, which is completely natural and important for flowering.

Fertilize with every other watering from March to October, and once a month during winter flowering.