Vivi's Orchid Corner

January 2004 - Volume 9, Issue 1

"Dendrochilum" - The Necklace Orchid

Dear Orchid Friends:

Dendrochilums are miniature orchids. These wonderful orchids produce chains of tiny, delicate flowers. Dendrochilums bear long downward curving spikes bearing hundreds of tiny flowers on each spike. The fragrant flowers are white, to pale yellow, tan or similar hues. Different species bloom at different times of the year: fall, winter, summer.

Dendrochilums are native to the Philippines and surrounding countries. Dendrochilums respond well as potted orchids and are considered compact plants. Theses orchids have oval pseudobulbs.

Species include: D. cobbianum, filiforme, magnum, unactum.

I have always admired these miniature beauties. I search these orchids out at the Orchid Show Displays. With close and careful scrutiny, I am mesmerized by the delicateness of each flower and what a magnificent inflorescence they produce. I have not tried growing these little beauties. I envision this may be a challenge to attempt in the near future.

Vivi