Noble Dendrobium (Dendrobium nobile): Classic Orchid with Fragrant Winter Blooms

Botanical Profile

Family: Orchidaceae (or-kid-AY-see-ee)
Genus: Dendrobium (den-DROH-bee-um)
Species: nobile (no-BIL-ee)
Synonyms: Callista nobilis, Dendrobium coerulescens, Dendrobium formosanum, Dendrobium lindleyanum

Description

Noble dendrobium is a deciduous, epiphytic orchid native to the Himalayas, Southeast Asia, and southern China. It produces erect, cane-like pseudobulbs 12–18 inches tall with alternate, oval leaves that drop in winter. In late winter to spring, it bears abundant, fragrant flowers 2–3 inches across in the leaf axils along the upper portion of the canes. Flowers are typically white or pale pink with a deep maroon-purple blotch on the lip and a yellow throat. Long-lasting.

Cultivation

Requires a distinct cool, dry winter rest (50–55°F nights, minimal water) to initiate flowering. Bright light (some direct morning sun). Intermediate temperatures. High humidity during growth. Pot in coarse bark. Fertilize weekly during active growth. Stop watering and fertilizing in fall until flower buds appear.

Significance

One of the most popular and widely cultivated Dendrobium species. Parent of countless hybrids. The specific epithet nobile means "noble"—referring to its elegant bearing. Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (Shi Hu) for yin deficiency, fever, and eye health.