Queen of the North
dendrobium victoriae-reginae
Also known as: ["Queen of the North Orchid"]
Overview
A stunning epiphytic orchid native to the rainforests of New Guinea, known for its large, fragrant, lavender and white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Dendrobium |
| Botanical Name: | Dendrobium victoriae-reginae |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor hanging basket or mounted on a wooden board near a bright window
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially during hot, dry periods
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Orchid bark mix with perlite and charcoal for aeration and drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or as needed to remove dead material.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing healthy pseudobulbs unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; direct morning sun is tolerated but avoid harsh afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to brighter light; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; place outdoors in dappled shade during warmer months.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak sun hours; adjust light exposure seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 2–3 weeks in winter
Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; avoid wetting the crown to prevent rot; ensure excellent drainage after each watering.
Soil
well-draining orchid mix with bark and perlite
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use a well-aerated mix; avoid heavy potting soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F or 10–15°C) at night promote better blooming; avoid extreme fluctuations.
Maintain stable temperatures; provide cooler nights for blooming; protect from sudden cold snaps.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth with diluted orchid fertilizer, none in winter
Flush potting medium monthly with plain water to prevent salt buildup; fertilize after watering to avoid root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings (keikis) or division of mature pseudobulbs.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy pseudobulb.
- Cut below a node.
- Apply rooting hormone if desired.
- Place in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%); warm temperatures (70–80°F or 21–27°C); bright indirect light.
Medium
Fine orchid bark mix or sphagnum moss with perlite for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can speed up root development.
Timeline
Keikis may form in 4–8 weeks; roots develop in 2–3 months; establishment takes 6–12 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or shears, rooting hormone, humidity dome or plastic bag, sterile medium.
Quick Tips
Keep cuttings moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible; monitor for signs of rot.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut dead or damaged pseudobulbs at the base; trim spent flower spikes just above the next node if keikis are desired.
Pruning Plan
Focus on removing dead or damaged pseudobulbs and spent flower spikes to encourage new growth and blooming.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; remove dead material; trim carefully; disinfect cuts if needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, just before the start of the growing season.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has ample drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh orchid mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the potting medium breaks down; necessary to refresh nutrients and improve drainage.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; sterilize tools; trim roots; use fresh medium; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly onto the potting medium, avoiding the plant's leaves and pseudobulbs; ensure water reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain completely; water less frequently during dormancy.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of the potting medium is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot; increase during active growth in spring and summer.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate sphagnum moss for water retention; use orchid-specific fertilizer.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing or browning; bud drop; stunted growth; blackened pseudobulbs.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes; can cause root damage; may lead to leaf drop or dieback if prolonged.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering during cold periods.
Hot Stress
Can cause leaf scorch; wilting; reduced flowering; may lead to dehydration if not watered adequately.
Solution: Provide increased humidity; move to a shadier spot; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging; use shade cloth if outdoors.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; flush periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced orchid fertilizer (20-20-20) diluted to half strength; fertilize every 2–4 weeks during active growth; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDendrobium victoriae-reginae is not known to be toxic to cats. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicDendrobium victoriae-reginae is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicDendrobium victoriae-reginae is not known to have any toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Dendrobium victoriae-reginae?
A: Water thoroughly when the potting medium is nearly dry, typically every 7-10 days depending on conditions.
Q: Does this orchid require special lighting?
A: Yes, it thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural rainforest canopy environment.
Q: Can I grow this orchid outdoors?
A: It can be grown outdoors in warm, humid climates with shelter from direct sun and strong winds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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