Dendrobium kingianum ssp. carnavonense (white)

Description

Dendrobium kingianum is one of the most popular of all Dendrobium species.  Plants vary in height from 6-12″ (15-30 cm), and they are sometimes described as the weeds of the orchid world–strong praise in my book!  They grow cool to hot and should be grown outside as long as possible to enjoy the daily temperature fluctuation and get a chill in the fall (down to just 55 is fine, but as low as 40).  I keep mine quite wet in the summer and fertilize well.  In the winter, I still water, but not as thoroughly.  Grow in bright but indirect light.  They will grow and even bloom in low light, but not nearly as well.  Plants bloom in late winter, and the flowers smell AMAZING!!!  Flower color varies from pink to purple, but the smell is strong and intoxicating whatever the color.

Dendrobium kingianum ssp. carnavonense (white) is a subspecies of D. kingianum characterized by white flowers.  These guys are around 9″ tall, so they are pushing the envelope for “miniature” status.  Like all Dendrobium kingianum, they are easy to grow and don’t mind some abuse.