Cane Orchid Dormancy: Evergreen vs. Deciduous Dendrobiums

How to Tell If Your Dendrobium Is Dormant—And What to Do

Dendrobium dormancy depends entirely on type. Misidentifying it leads to over- or under-watering.

Evergreen Dendrobiums

• Flowers on spikes from the top of the cane.
• Keep barely moist year-round.
• Resume normal watering when new growth/roots appear.

Deciduous Dendrobiums

• Flowers along the sides of the cane (no terminal spike).
• Need a dry winter rest—water sparingly, just enough to prevent shriveling.
• Resume watering when new growth emerges in spring.

Key Indicator

Check where the flowers were borne. That single observation dictates the correct winter care.