Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Dendrobium |
Description
Dendrobium Striolatum, commonly known as the Striped Dendrobium or the Pale Dendrobium, is a species of orchid native to Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, and the Philippines. It is a epiphytic plant that grows on tree branches or rocks. The plant produces pseudobulbs, which are modified stems that store water and nutrients, and sprouts leaves and flowers from the top. The flowers are small and have a white color with purple stripes.
Appearance
The Dendrobium Striolatum has a distinctive appearance that sets it apart from other orchid plants. Its pseudobulbs are thin and elongated, measuring around 20 cm in length, and have a grayish-green color. The leaves are narrow and elongated, measuring around 10 cm in length, and have a green color with a darker shade on the top side. The flowers grow in small clusters at the top of the pseudobulbs, and each flower measures around 2 cm in diameter. The petals and sepals are white with purple stripes, and the lip is white with a yellow center.
Care Guide
The Dendrobium Striolatum requires specific care to thrive and produce healthy flowers. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant once a week, or more frequently if the weather is hot and dry, and let the water drain completely before putting it back in its pot or container.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month, using a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
- Soil: Use a well-drained soil mix with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5, such as orchid bark or sphagnum moss.
- Sunlight: Place the plant in a location with bright, indirect sunlight, such as near a window that faces east or west.
- Hardiness Zones: The Dendrobium Striolatum can grow in USDA hardiness zones 10 and 11, which have an average minimum temperature of 30°F (-1°C) and 40°F (4°C), respectively.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Dendrobium Striolatum can be susceptible to pests and diseases if not properly cared for. Here are some common issues to watch out for:
- Mealybugs: These insects look like small white cotton balls and can cause damage to the plant by sucking sap from the leaves and flowers.
- Scale insects: These insects look like small brown bumps and can also cause damage by sucking sap from the plant.
- Root rot: This disease can occur if the plant is overwatered or if the soil mix does not drain well, causing the roots to rot and die.
- Bacterial and fungal infections: These can occur if the plant is exposed to too much moisture, causing spots or discoloration on the leaves and flowers.
Habitat
The Dendrobium Striolatum is native to Southeast Asia and can be found in various habitats, including lowland forests, hill forests, and montane forests. It grows as an epiphyte on tree branches or rocks, and can also grow as a lithophyte on rocky surfaces. The plant prefers a warm and humid climate, with temperatures ranging from 65°F (18°C) to 85°F (30°C), and high levels of rainfall throughout the year.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I repot my Dendrobium Striolatum?
A: Repotting should be done every 2-3 years, or when the plant outgrows its current pot or container.
Q: Can I grow the Dendrobium Striolatum indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it has access to bright, indirect sunlight and proper air circulation.
Q: How can I propagate the Dendrobium Striolatum?
A: Propagation can be done through division, by separating the plant into smaller pieces and repotting them individually.
Q: Does the Dendrobium Striolatum have any medicinal properties?
A: Some species of Dendrobium plants have been used in traditional medicine for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, but more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness.
Related Plants
- Dendrobium Nobile
- Dendrobium Phalaenopsis
- Dendrobium Loddigesii
- Dendrobium Spectabile
References
- “Dendrobium Striolatum.” Orchid Society of South East Asia. Accessed 16 August 2021. https://www.ossea.org.sg/dendrobium-striolatum/
- “Dendrobium Striolatum.” World of Flowering Plants. Accessed 16 August 2021. https://worldoffloweringplants.com/dendrobium-striolatum-striped-dendrobium/
- “Dendrobium Striolatum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 16 August 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/15518/dendrobium-striolatum/details
