Pigeon Orchid (Dendrobium crumenatum)

Pigeon Orchid

Dendrobium crumenatum

Fragrant night-blooming blooms evoke quiet twilight charm. Epiphytic orchid; common name: Pigeon Orchid.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Moderate
🌱

Plant Needs

☀️
Sunlight Bright indirect light; avoid direct midday sun, tolerate partial shade
💧
Watering Water thoroughly when potting medium is nearly dry; avoid waterlogging pseudobulbs
🌡️
Temperature Thrives at 18–25°C; avoid temperatures below 12°C to prevent pseudobulb damage
🔍

Characteristics

  • Leaf: Linear to lanceolate, leathery, 10–15 cm long, arranged alternately on pseudobulbs
  • Flower: White, fragrant, 5–7 cm wide; blooms open at dusk and wilt by mid-morning
  • Pseudobulb: Cylindrical, green, fleshy, stores water and nutrients
🛠️

Care Guide

Watering

Keep medium slightly moist; increase frequency in hot, dry weather

Fertilization

Diluted orchid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Use balanced, diluted orchid fertilizer to avoid burning roots

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2–3 weeks; steep in water, dilute 1:20 for root drench; avoid overfeeding to prevent nutrient buildup
Pruning
  • Remove wilted blooms and yellowing leaves to maintain plant health and airflow
  • Trim dead, shriveled pseudobulbs in spring to encourage new growth
  • Repot every 2–3 years to refresh potting medium and prevent root binding
⚠️

Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic; no harmful effects from ingestion or contact

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact

📖

Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental fragrant orchid for indoor display and greenhouse collections