Dendrobium victoriae-reginae aka Queen Victoria's Dendrobium

Taxonomy

Dendrobium victoriae-reginae, also known as Queen Victoria's dendrobium, is a medium-sized epiphytic orchid endemic to the Philippines. It has long, cane-like stems that can range from 20cm to 1.2m in length, covered in papery sheaths and carrying lance-shaped leaves. The plant blooms in late spring, producing clusters of one to three flowers with a diameter of 3-4cm. The flowers are pale purple or blue with a white center. This orchid species is found in the Montane ecoregion of the Philippines, growing on moss-covered trunks of Lithocarpus species at elevations ranging from 1300 to 2700 meters. Its pseudobulbs are thin, descending, and clumping, rarely branching, and it bears many unsubdivided, pointed papery leaves. The inflorescences of Dendrobium victoriae-reginae are violet or purple with a darker tip and white center. The orchid was named in honor of Queen Victoria to commemorate the British monarch.

Common names

Queen Victoria's Dendrobium

How to care for Queen Victoria's Dendrobium

Difficulty

With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Queen Victoria's Dendrobium, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.

Lighting

Queen Victoria's Dendrobium requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Queen Victoria's Dendrobium will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it is common for Queen Victoria's Dendrobium plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.


More info:
Wikipedia