This orchid grows on rock (lithophyte) and forms rhizomes that appear as creeping stems that are swollen at the base and topped with thick leathery lanced-shaped leaves. During late winter it produces racemes of creamy-white to yellowish flowers.

Hardiness zones 9 to 11

Dendrobium speciosumis naturally found in Australia growing on the east coast of New South Wales. It prefers a semi shaded to sunny position and grows in leaf mould and course material including stone. It is drought tolerant but frost tender and requires little care onced estabilished.

The Rock Orchid is grown for is clumping habit and sprays of flowers. It is commonly grown on rock outcrops or in rock crevices in parks or gardens and is also be grown in slatted hanging baskets. It is suitable for coastal and low mountain regions and establishes from division in 3 to 4 years and is moderately long lived. This plant is also used around water features or in a rainforest setting. Large pieces will transplant easily for an instant effect and requiring a little care. ID 238

Note:
There are two types of Dendrobium speciosumwith similar cultivation requirements.

This plant is normally found growing on sandstone outcrops (Lithophyte) on the east coast of New South Wales. It has shortpseudo-bulbs that are 150 to 300mm (1ft) long and are 4mm (?in) diameter. They produce creamy-yellow flowers that appear on a 450mm (17in) long spike.

The other Dendrobium speciosumappears in the east coast rainforest on trees and is more epiphytic.It has long thinpseudo-bulbs that are 600 to 700mm (30in) in length and produces creamy-white flowers on a spike that is up to 600mm long.

Dendrobium(den-DRŐ-bee-um) speciosum (sp-see-O-sum)

Dendrobium spp."Dendrobium", from Greek dendros, "tree", + bios, "life" - refers to the epiphytic habit ie "life on a tree".

Orchidaceae (or-kid-AY-see-ee)
Orchid Family