Dendrobium aggregatum (Now Dendrobium lindleyi)

Description

Dendrobium aggregatum (Now Dendrobium lindleyi) – The Golden Shower Orchid

Dendrobium aggregatum, now more commonly classified as Dendrobium lindleyi, is a stunning epiphytic orchid known for its bright yellow, fragrant flowers that appear in clusters, resembling a golden shower. This species is native to Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand, Laos, and India, where it thrives in seasonal dry forests.

Plant Characteristics:

• Growth Habit: Compact, with small, oval-shaped pseudobulbs that produce a single, thick, leathery leaf.
• Flowers: Blooms in spring, producing arching sprays of golden-yellow flowers with a prominent cup-like lip. Flowers are short-lived but intensely beautiful.
• Fragrance: Lightly fragrant, especially during the day.
• Size: Typically grows 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) tall, making it ideal for mounting on wood or placing in hanging baskets.

Care Guide:

Light:

• Prefers bright, indirect light or filtered sunlight (similar to Cattleya orchids).
• Too much direct sunlight may cause leaf scorch, while too little light may prevent flowering.

Temperature & Humidity:

• Thrives in warm to intermediate temperatures (65-85°F / 18-29°C).
• Requires high humidity (50-80%), especially during active growth.

Watering:

• During active growth (spring to summer), keep the plant evenly moist, allowing the medium to dry slightly between waterings.
• In winter, it experiences a dry rest period—reduce watering significantly to encourage flowering.

Potting & Mounting:

• Can be grown in baskets, wooden slats, or mounted on cork or tree fern slabs for a natural look.
• If potted, use a well-draining mix (bark, charcoal, perlite).

Fertilizing:

• Feed with a balanced orchid fertilizer (20-20-20) during the growing season, diluted to half strength, every 1-2 weeks.
• Reduce feeding in the fall and stop during the winter rest period.

Dormancy & Flowering:

• Requires a dry rest period in winter to trigger blooming. Reduce watering and stop fertilizing until flower spikes begin to form.
• Blooms once per year, with flowers lasting 7-14 days.

Additional Tips:

✔️ Good airflow is essential to prevent fungal issues.
✔️ If no blooms appear, increase light exposure and ensure a proper dry rest period.
✔️ Works well in hanging baskets for a natural cascading display of flowers.

This orchid is perfect for collectors who enjoy seasonal bursts of color and fragrant blooms. With proper care, Dendrobium lindleyi will reward you with a dazzling floral display year after year! 🌿✨