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Description
Dendrobium Bigibbum Var. Superbum, commonly known as the Superb Dendrobium or the Superb Orchid, is a species of orchid that belongs to the family Orchidaceae. It is native to Australia, where it grows on trees and rocks in subtropical and tropical rainforests. The plant produces long arching stems that can grow up to 60 cm in length, and they bear clusters of small, fragrant, and colorful flowers that bloom in the spring and summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Dendrobium |
Appearance
Dendrobium Bigibbum Var. Superbum is a stunning orchid that boasts colorful and fragrant flowers. The flowers are small, measuring about 2.5 cm in diameter, and they come in shades of pink, purple, and white. They have a distinctive lip that is fringed and marked with purple spots. The plant produces long arching stems that can grow up to 60 cm in length, and they bear numerous flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The leaves are narrow and elongated, measuring about 15 cm in length, and they are arranged alternately along the stem.
Care Guide
To ensure that Dendrobium Bigibbum Var. Superbum thrives, it is important to provide it with the right care. Here are some care tips to keep in mind:
Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, making sure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering during the winter months to prevent the roots from rotting.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Reduce fertilization during the winter months.
Soil: Dendrobium Bigibbum Var. Superbum prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a mix of bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite to create a suitable growing medium.
Sunlight: Place the plant in a well-lit area where it can receive bright but indirect sunlight. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight as this can scorch the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: Dendrobium Bigibbum Var. Superbum is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like all plants, Dendrobium Bigibbum Var. Superbum is susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common ones to watch out for:
Pests: The plant may be attacked by mealybugs, scale insects, spider mites, and thrips. Use an insecticidal soap or oil to control these pests.
Diseases: Dendrobium Bigibbum Var. Superbum may be affected by root rot, fungal leaf spots, and bacterial blight. Ensure that the plant is not overwatered and provide good air circulation to prevent these diseases.
Habitat
Dendrobium Bigibbum Var. Superbum is native to Australia, where it grows on trees and rocks in subtropical and tropical rainforests. It prefers warm and humid conditions and thrives in areas with high rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Dendrobium Bigibbum Var. Superbum?
A: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering during the winter months.
Q: What kind of soil does Dendrobium Bigibbum Var. Superbum prefer?
A: Dendrobium Bigibbum Var. Superbum prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a mix of bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite to create a suitable growing medium.
Q: What pests are common on Dendrobium Bigibbum Var. Superbum?
A: The plant may be attacked by mealybugs, scale insects, spider mites, and thrips. Use an insecticidal soap or oil to control these pests.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Dendrobium Bigibbum Var. Superbum?
A: Dendrobium Bigibbum Var. Superbum is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 12.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Dendrobium Bigibbum Var. Superbum:
- Dendrobium nobile
- Dendrobium phalaenopsis
- Dendrobium loddigesii
- Dendrobium chrysotoxum
- Dendrobium nobile hybrid
References
- “Dendrobium Bigibbum Var. Superbum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b607.
- “Dendrobium Bigibbum.” Orchid Care Tips, https://www.orchidcaretips.com/dendrobium-bigibbum.html.
- “Dendrobium Bigibbum Var. Superbum.” American Orchid Society, https://www.aos.org/orchids/orchids-a-to-z/letter-d/dendrobium/dendrobium-bigibbum.aspx.
