The cool climate Dendrobium kingianum (syn Thelychiton kingianum) or ‘Pink Rock Orchid’ is an easy care orchid. We look at culture and growing requirements for Den. kingianum.
Readily available form sale from Online Orchid Specialists, Dendrobium kingianum species and cultivars are a fragrant easy care orchid.
The markings on the lip vary on this lovely orchid, many hybrids are available with intense colors. These are a hardy winter flowering orchid, easy to care for and with tall flower stems are a great cut flower.
An excellent orchid for beginners and a great source for the enthusiast who wishes to hybridise. One form used is ‘var. silcockii’ which has white tepals and a purple lip.
Dendrobium kingianum Care
Proper care of Dendrobium kingianum species requires good drainage, and filtered light, generally regarded as a hardy orchid.
Water well but remember that good drainage is essential – Dendrobium kingianum do not like to dry out completely (and do like a little humidity) although a little less water in fall and winter seems to work.
Try growing in pots with lots of air circulation, avoid frosts, water Dendrobium kingianum well during summer and hot spells, fertilize during summer with a weak low nitrogen fertilizer.
With local conditions in the US varying greatly cultivation and care requirements although basically similar will require some modification, especially in colder areas.
Consult with your supplier and ask for specific instructions for your Zone.
Repotting Dendrobium kingianum
A free draining mixture of medium bark and perlite works well and these orchids are best repotted every 2-3 years. Make sure that you use a pot just big enough to contain the root system, not to much extra space, just enough for a little extra growth.
