Dendrobium Nobile Orchid
Dendrobium nobile
Height
40–60 cm (stems/canes)
Flower size
4–6 cm
Bloom time
Winter – Spring (January-March)
Light
Bright Light (South/East windows)
Watering
Seasonal (Abundant in Summer, Dry in Winter)
Hardiness
Indoor (Winter needs +10...+15°C)
Fragrance
Pleasant, floral
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
- Extremely abundant blooming: the whole stem turns into a garland
- Easily propagated by 'babies' (keikis) that grow on the canes
- Pleasant delicate scent
- Long-lived, constantly sending up new growth from the base
Disadvantages
- Requires a cold/dry rest period to rebloom (mandatory!)
- Old stems drop leaves and look like bare sticks (natural but less pretty)
- Roots are thinner and more sensitive to salt buildup
Use in Landscape Design
A vertical plant. Saves space but needs a stable, heavy pot (ceramic) so the top-heavy canes don't tip it over. During blooming, it's a ready-made bouquet that lasts 2-3 months.
Description: The Bamboo Orchid
A sympodial orchid that grows in a clump rather than a single rosette. Has bamboo-like 'canes' (pseudobulbs) for water storage. Flowers appear directly from the leaf axils along the stem. One cane can hold up to 50–70 flowers.
The Main Secret: Dormancy Period
This is why they often only bloom once after purchase. Needs a simulated winter. 1. Summer: Grow foliage, water, and feed. 2. Autumn: Once new canes match the old ones, STOP watering and move to a cool spot (+10...+15°C). No water for 1-2 months! This stress triggers buds. Once flower bumps appear, start light watering.
Watering and Feeding
During growth (spring-summer), it's thirsty. Soak every 3-5 days. Use orchid fertilizer every other watering. Roots are thin; substrate must dry faster than for Phalaenopsis.
Soil and Pot
Fine pine bark (0.5–1 cm) mixed with sphagnum. Use a small, heavy pot. Drainage is essential.
What to do with Spent Canes?
Canes may drop leaves after blooming. Don't cut them! They serve as 'batteries' for new growth, providing nutrients. Only remove shriveled, dry, yellow canes that are 3-4+ years old.
Propagation: Keikis
If you don't provide a cool rest and keep watering, 'babies' (keikis) grow instead of flowers. Once their roots reach 5 cm, twist them off and plant in fine bark. Easiest way to propagate orchids.