Contents
Description
Dendrobium Cucumerinum is a species of orchid native to Southeast Asia, particularly in Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia. It is commonly known as the cucumber orchid because of its long, cylindrical, and greenish-yellow flowers that resemble cucumbers. This orchid grows epiphytically on trees or rocks, but it can also grow terrestrially on the ground. Its flowers bloom in the spring and summer, and they can last up to two weeks.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Dendrobium |
Appearance
Dendrobium Cucumerinum has long, cylindrical, and greenish-yellow flowers that resemble cucumbers. Its flowers can grow up to 12 centimeters in length and have a waxy texture. The lip of the flower is broad and white, with purple spots and a yellow center. Its leaves are thin and elongated, and they can grow up to 30 centimeters in length. The leaves are green and have a smooth texture.
Care Guide
Water: Dendrobium Cucumerinum needs to be watered regularly during the growing season. It prefers to be moist but not soaked. During the winter months, reduce watering to once a week.
Fertilization: Fertilize this orchid every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Stop fertilizing during the winter months.
Soil: This orchid prefers a well-draining orchid mix that is composed of bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss.
Sunlight: Dendrobium Cucumerinum prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can burn its leaves.
Hardiness Zones: This orchid is best grown in USDA hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dendrobium Cucumerinum is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. It can also develop root rot if it is overwatered or if it is planted in a soil mix that retains too much moisture. To prevent these issues, it is important to maintain proper watering and fertilization practices.
Habitat
Dendrobium Cucumerinum is native to Southeast Asia, particularly in Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia. It grows in tropical and subtropical regions, where it thrives in humid and warm environments. This orchid can be found growing epiphytically on trees or rocks, but it can also grow terrestrially on the ground.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dendrobium Cucumerinum grow indoors?
A: Yes, this orchid can be grown indoors, as long as it is given bright, indirect sunlight and proper care.
Q: How often should I fertilize Dendrobium Cucumerinum?
A: This orchid should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How do I know if my Dendrobium Cucumerinum is getting too much sunlight?
A: If your orchid’s leaves are turning yellow or brown, it may be getting too much sunlight. Move it to a spot with less direct sunlight.
Q: What should I do if my Dendrobium Cucumerinum develops root rot?
A: If your orchid has root rot, you should remove it from its pot and trim away the affected roots. Repot it in a fresh orchid mix that is well-draining.
Related Plants
- Dendrobium nobile
- Dendrobium phalaenopsis
- Dendrobium loddigesii
- Dendrobium speciosum
References
- Cribb, P. (1997). The Genus Dendrobium. Timber Press.
- Dendrobium cucumerinum. (n.d.). Retrieved September 7, 2021, from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/13198/dendrobium-cucumerinum/details
- Orchid Care: Dendrobiums. (n.d.). Retrieved September 7, 2021, from https://www.aos.org/orchids/additional-resources/orchid-care/dendrobiums.aspx
