Dendrobium lineale
Native to New Guinea, a stunning epiphyte or lithophyte with vibrant, colorful blooms
Dendrobium lineale is a striking orchid species native to the northeastern coast of New Guinea, flourishing along streams and oceans at elevations up to 800 meters. This large to giant-sized orchid thrives in hot to warm conditions and is known for its erect, cane-like stems that can reach up to 2 meters in length. The stems are leafy towards the apex, adorned with many dark green, leathery, oblong to lanceolate leaves, which are up to 15 cm long and persistent year-round.
Floral Display
Dendrobium lineale is exceptionally floriferous, blooming from spring through early fall on an arching inflorescence that can reach up to 90 cm in length. The inflorescence can be densely or laxly populated with 15 to 35 flowers, each one fragrant, long-lived, and heavy-textured. The color of the flowers is highly variable, with hues of pink, blue, yellow, purple, and white, often with a distinctive white color and purple-veined lip. The petals are either twisted or flat, with rounded or blunt tips, and the lip has a wavy margin. These flowers are produced from nodes near the apex of older canes, creating a stunning visual effect.
Light Requirements
Dendrobium lineale thrives in bright, indirect light. It appreciates plenty of light but cannot tolerate the full intensity of the midday sun. Providing filtered or diffused light is ideal, with exposure to morning sun and shade from mid-morning onwards during the summer. In winter, it can tolerate direct sunlight until around 11:30 a.m.
Temperature and Humidity
This species prefers warm conditions, with average summer temperatures ranging from 30-32°C during the day and 22°C at night, maintaining a temperature differential of 8-9°C. Winter temperatures are slightly cooler, with daytime temperatures of 28-31°C and nighttime temperatures dropping to 11-13°C, creating a wider temperature swing of 15-18°C. Humidity should be maintained at 80-85% from summer to autumn and 60-70% during the rest of the year. A high level of humidity is crucial for healthy growth, but it is important to ensure adequate ventilation to avoid fungal infections and rot.
Substrate and Repotting
Dendrobium lineale thrives in a well-draining substrate, such as staghorn peat, with crocks and charcoal at the bottom of the pot for improved drainage. Repotting should be done only when necessary, such as when the substrate becomes compacted or if the plant outgrows its pot. This typically occurs after the plant has finished blooming and new growth begins. Ensure you use the smallest pot that can accommodate the plant's roots, and avoid overpotting.
Watering and Fertilization
Watering is crucial for Dendrobium lineale, requiring heavy watering through autumn. During the winter, watering should be reduced, allowing the plant to dry out slightly, with a light soaking every 4 to 6 weeks. The amount of watering should be adjusted according to temperature—higher temperatures necessitate more frequent watering. Ensure water drains freely from the pot to prevent root rot.
Fertilize with a 1/4 to 1/2 dose of balanced orchid fertilizer on a weekly basis. During spring to mid-summer, a high-nitrogen fertilizer can be used to encourage growth, while a high-phosphoric fertilizer in the late summer to autumn will stimulate blooming. During the winter rest period, reduce or eliminate fertilization.
Rest Period
Dendrobium lineale requires a period of rest during the winter months, during which time water and fertilizer should be reduced. The plant should be kept relatively dry between waterings, but not for extended periods. Frequent misting can help maintain adequate humidity. New growth will signal the end of the rest period, at which point watering and fertilization can be resumed.
Care Tips
- Maintain high humidity and ensure proper ventilation to avoid fungal issues.
- Avoid overwatering during the winter rest period.
- Repot only when necessary and use a well-draining substrate.
- Provide bright, indirect light and avoid direct sunlight during midday.
This is a blooming size mounted or in a 4" pot about 1 to 2 years to bloom, grown from seed, limited!
Dendrobium lineale is an exquisite species that rewards its grower with a stunning floral display and vibrant colors. With the right care and attention to temperature, humidity, and light, it will thrive and bring beauty to your orchid collection year-round.