Dendrobium bigibbum var. superbum

Cooktown orchid is an herbaceous perennial epiphyte native to Queensland, Australia, and New Guinea in the orchid family (Orchidaceae). It can be found growing in lower elevations in bright light tropical conditions. This subspecies is found in the Cooktown area hence the common name.

Use this plant in a pot with a potting mix appropriate for orchids. Provide bright indirect light and humidity with good air circulation. Direct morning sunlight can be beneficial to promote flowering if the plant is slow to flower. Young plants may be slow to flower. During the active growing season keep the potting medium moist and fertilize with a balanced liquid product, such as 10-10-10 or a special orchid fertilizer, every 4 to 6 weeks. The plant needs a winter rest period, at which time fertilizer is not required and water should be reduced.

This orchid grows from a pseudobulb and produces large leathery leaves. It can flower anytime during the growing season with long arching stems with 2 to 12 long-lasting upward-facing mauve blooms. The wild-type variety is rarely cultivated, but there are hundreds of hybrids derived from it that are commonly sold in nurseries, grocery stores, big box stores and florists. The hybrids have flowers in various shades of pink, purple, mauve, white or a combination of these colors.

This plant is used as a house plant in our area. It can be placed outdoors during the summer but avoid direct sunlight.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Spider mites can occur

More information on Dendrobium.