Dendrobium bigibbum

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Description

Size: Flowers are about 5-6 cm in diameter

Growth Habit: Epiphytic or lithophytic orchid

Stem: Thin, erect pseudobulbs up to 60 cm in height

Leaves: Lanceolate, leathery, and dark green, arranged alternately along the pseudobulbs

Flowers: Large, showy, and typically purple to mauve in color, occasionally white; blooms are arranged in racemes

Flowering Season: Primarily in the dry season, between March and October

Known Range

Environment: Prefers warm, tropical climates; often found on trees or rocks in open forests and woodlands

Natural Habitat: Northern Australia, particularly the Cape York Peninsula and Torres Strait Islands

Elevation: Found at sea level up to 1200 meters

Care Requirements

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light; can tolerate some direct sunlight
• Temperature: Optimal range is between 18-30°C (65-85°F); avoid temperatures below 10°C (50°F)
• Humidity: Requires high humidity, ideally between 50-70%
• Watering: Water regularly during the growing season (spring and summer), reducing frequency during the dormant period (autumn and winter)
• Substrate: Well-draining orchid mix; often a combination of bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss
• Fertilization: Feed with a balanced orchid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season
• Potting: Repot every two to three years, or when the plant outgrows its container

Additional Notes

• Prone to pests such as scale and mealybugs; regular inspection and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control infestations.
• The Cooktown Orchid is the floral emblem of Queensland, Australia.