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Description
Dendrobium Bigibbum, commonly known as the Cooktown orchid or the two-humped Dendrobium due to the shape of its pseudobulbs, is a perennial epiphytic orchid native to Australia. It belongs to the family Orchidaceae, one of the largest families of flowering plants. The orchid is highly valued for its beautiful flowers that come in a wide variety of colors, including purple, pink, white, and yellow. The Cooktown orchid was proclaimed as the floral emblem of Queensland in 1959.
Taxonomic Information
The taxonomic information of Dendrobium Bigibbum is as follows:
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Dendrobium |
Appearance
The Dendrobium Bigibbum orchid has pseudobulbs that are two-humped and can grow up to 60 centimeters long. The leaves are thin, elongated, and grow up to 10 centimeters long. The flowers grow in clusters of up to 15 blooms and are typically 5 to 7 centimeters wide. The petals and sepals are narrow and elongated, while the lip is wide and frilled. The colors of the flowers range from purple, pink, white, and yellow, with some variations having multiple colors in one bloom. The flowers have a sweet fragrance that varies depending on the color of the bloom.
Care Guide
The Dendrobium Bigibbum orchid requires specific care to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for this orchid:
- Water: Water the orchid once a week, making sure to use filtered water that is at room temperature. Avoid getting water on the leaves or flowers, as this can cause damage to the plant.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the orchid once a month during the growing season, using a balanced orchid fertilizer. Do not fertilize during the dormant season.
- Soil: Plant the orchid in well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite. Repot the orchid every two years to prevent overcrowding of the roots.
- Sunlight: The orchid requires bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as this can burn the leaves and flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: The orchid is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 12, where the temperature ranges from 50 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Dendrobium Bigibbum orchid is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:
- Aphids: Small, sap-sucking insects that can cause stunted growth and distorted foliage.
- Spider Mites: Tiny, spider-like insects that suck sap from the plant and cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves.
- Root Rot: A fungal disease that occurs when the roots of the orchid are overwatered, causing them to rot.
- Bacterial Brown Spot: A bacterial disease that causes brown spots on the leaves and stems of the orchid.
Habitat
The Dendrobium Bigibbum orchid is native to Australia, where it grows in tropical and subtropical regions, including Queensland, New South Wales, and the Northern Territory. The orchid grows epiphytically on trees and rocks, and can also grow terrestrially in soil. The orchid is commonly found in rainforests, open woodlands, and along riverbanks.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I fertilize my Dendrobium Bigibbum orchid?
A: Fertilize the orchid once a month during the growing season, using a balanced orchid fertilizer. Do not fertilize during the dormant season.
Q: Can I grow Dendrobium Bigibbum orchids indoors?
A: Yes, you can grow Dendrobium Bigibbum orchids indoors, as long as they receive bright, indirect sunlight and the proper care.
Q: How do I know if my Dendrobium Bigibbum orchid is getting too much water?
A: If the leaves of the orchid are yellowing and wilting, this may be a sign that the plant is getting too much water. Adjust the watering schedule as needed.
Q: How do I prevent pests and diseases from affecting my Dendrobium Bigibbum orchid?
A: To prevent pests and diseases, make sure to provide proper care for the orchid, including proper watering, fertilization, and sunlight. Keep the orchid in a clean and well-ventilated area, and inspect the plant regularly for signs of pests or diseases.
Related Plants
Other orchids related to Dendrobium Bigibbum include:
- Dendrobium Nobile
- Dendrobium Phalaenopsis
- Dendrobium Orchis
- Dendrobium Loddigesii
References
- Australian National Botanic Gardens. (n.d.). Dendrobium bigibbum. Retrieved from https://www.anbg.gov.au/gnp/gnp8/dendrobium-bigibbum.html
- Burke’s Backyard. (2014). Cooktown orchid. Retrieved from https://www.burkesbackyard.com.au/fact-sheets/in-the-garden/flowering-plants-shrubs/cooktown-orchid/
- Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. (n.d.). Dendrobium bigibbum. Retrieved from https://www.fairchildgarden.org/Events-Community-Outreach/Events-Details/dendrobium-bigibbum
