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dendrobium muricatum
Also known as: []
Overview
A species of orchid native to Southeast Asia, known for its distinctive pseudobulbs and flowering habits.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Dendrobium |
| Botanical Name: | Dendrobium muricatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, filtered light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry climates
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Orchid bark mix with perlite, charcoal, and a small amount of sphagnum moss for moisture retention.
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, depending on plant condition.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to morning sun exposure in warmer months to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to brighter light; protect from intense afternoon sun; provide filtered light for indoor cultivation.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Use sheer curtains to diffuse direct sun; rotate plant for even light exposure; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; avoid wetting the crown to prevent fungal issues; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-draining orchid mix with bark and perlite
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use a well-aerated mix; avoid heavy garden 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 sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent night/day cycles; protect from extreme heat or cold.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth with diluted orchid fertilizer, none in winter
Flush pots monthly with plain water to prevent salt buildup; fertilize after watering to avoid root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings (keikis) or division of mature pseudobulb clusters.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem segments.
- Apply rooting hormone if used.
- Place in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots to develop.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–80°F or 21–27°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Fine orchid bark mix or sphagnum moss with perlite for aeration.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots may form in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Clean scissors, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, sterile medium
Quick Tips
Keep cuttings moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting; monitor for mold.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut dead pseudobulbs at the base; trim flower spikes just above the node if keikis are forming.
Pruning Plan
Focus on removing dead or yellowing pseudobulbs and spent flower spikes to encourage new growth and blooming.
Tools
Sterile pruning shears, sterilizing solution
Checklist
Sterilize tools, remove dead parts, cut cleanly, clean up debris
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, just before the start of the growing season.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger with good drainage holes; ensure it accommodates root growth without excessive space.
Method
Remove old medium, trim dead roots, repot in fresh orchid mix with good drainage, position pseudobulbs above the medium level.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the potting medium breaks down; necessary if roots outgrow the pot.
Checklist
Prepare new medium, inspect roots, trim if necessary, position plant correctly, water lightly after repotting
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, avoid crown wetting
How to Apply Water Properly
Water until it flows from the drainage holes, ensuring even moisture distribution; focus on the root zone and avoid direct contact with leaves or pseudobulbs.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of the potting medium is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for aeration; incorporate sphagnum moss for moisture retention; use orchid-specific fertilizer to enhance nutrients.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, bud drop, stunted growth, or leaf spotting.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in cooler conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may cease in excessive heat above 90°F (32°C).
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer, apply during growing season, flush periodically, avoid winter feeding
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced orchid fertilizer (20-20-20) diluted to half strength every 2–4 weeks during active growth; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDendrobium muricatum is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not produce known compounds that are harmful to felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicDendrobium muricatum is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not produce known compounds that are harmful to canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicDendrobium muricatum is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal conditions. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and incidental ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Dendrobium muricatum?
A: Water when the potting medium is nearly dry, typically every 7-10 days depending on conditions.
Q: Does Dendrobium muricatum require special lighting?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light, similar to other orchids.
Q: Can Dendrobium muricatum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors with proper light and humidity.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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