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Description
Dendrobium Linguiforme, commonly known as the Tongue Orchid, is a species of orchid native to Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam. It is a epiphytic plant, meaning it grows on other plants, and can be found growing in tropical rainforests and montane forests from sea level to elevations of up to 1700 meters.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Dendrobium |
Appearance
Dendrobium Linguiforme has thin, elongated leaves that resemble tongues, hence its common name. The leaves are dark green and can grow up to 30 cm long. The plant produces long, slender stems that can reach up to 50 cm in length and are covered in small, white flowers with a yellow center. The flowers bloom in clusters and have a sweet, fragrant scent.
Care Guide
To care for Dendrobium Linguiforme, it is important to provide it with the proper amount of water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and hardiness zones.
Water: Dendrobium Linguiforme prefers to be kept moist but not wet. Water it once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: The plant should be grown in a well-draining potting mix with bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss.
Sunlight: Dendrobium Linguiforme prefers bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight but should be protected from intense afternoon sun.
Hardiness Zones: The plant can be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 10-12 or indoors in a warm, humid environment.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dendrobium Linguiforme is susceptible to pests such as mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. It can also be affected by diseases such as root rot and bacterial blight. To prevent these issues, it is important to maintain proper care and hygiene practices such as avoiding overwatering and keeping the plant clean and free of debris.
Habitat
Dendrobium Linguiforme is native to Southeast Asia, where it can be found growing in tropical rainforests and montane forests from sea level to elevations of up to 1700 meters. It is an epiphytic plant, meaning it grows on other plants such as trees and rocks.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Dendrobium Linguiforme?
A: Water the plant once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Q: Can Dendrobium Linguiforme tolerate direct sunlight?
A: The plant can tolerate some direct sunlight but should be protected from intense afternoon sun.
Q: What should I do if my Dendrobium Linguiforme is affected by root rot?
A: Remove the affected parts of the plant and repot it in fresh, well-draining soil.
Q: When does Dendrobium Linguiforme bloom?
A: The plant blooms in the spring and summer months.
Related Plants
- Dendrobium Nobile
- Dendrobium Phalaenopsis
- Dendrobium Kingianum
References
- “Dendrobium Linguiforme.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
- “Dendrobium Linguiforme.” Missouri Botanical Garden.
- “Dendrobium Linguiforme.” Orchids Made Easy.
