Dendrobium section Latouria

Dendrobium section Latouria (Latouria) is a small shrub that varies in height from 2-5 feet. A native to Philippines, Samoa, and Papua New Guinea, it is well-suited to the warmer USDA zone 9-11. It thrives in semi-shade with bright indirect sunlight and humid air.

The most distinguishing feature of the Latouria is unusual flower color, which range from white, off-white, yellow, to orange. The flowers bloom in sprays and grow up to 6 inches in length. They have a sweet fragrance and should not be allowed to dry out.

When grown in the ground, it should be planted in a well-drained soil and watered regularly. If grown in a pot, it should be repotted every 2-3 years with a fresh potting mix, depending on the environment and weather conditions. Additionally, for cold regions, it should be grown in a container with a drainage hole and be potted using a sterile, peat-based potting soil for proper drainage.

When growing the Latouria in colder regions, it is important to protect from frost, which can cause the leaves or flowers to die back. It should be moved to a warmer location in the winter where temperatures remain around 50-55°F. When temperatures rise above this, the plant should be brought back outside in a shaded area and fertilized once every month.

Overall, the Latouria is an exotic, easy-care plant that can provide a colorful and fragrant addition to the home garden. With a bit of care and attention, this small shrub can be grown in warmer climates, as well as in colder regions by following the outlined plant care instructions.

Similar plants:

• Bifrenaria harrisoniae, Dendrobium harrisoniae (Bifrenaria)
• Dendrobium anosmum, Dendrobium superbum (Fragrant Dendrobium)
• Dendrobium bracteosum (Bracted Dendrobium)
• Dendrobium constrictum, Pedilonum mimiense (Constricted Dendrobium)
• Dendrobium densiflorum (Pineapple Orchid)
• Dendrobium fimbriatum (Fringed-lipped Dendrobium)
• Dendrobium formosum (Giant-flowered Dendrobium)
• Dendrobium Humming Butterfly (Butterfly Dendrobium)
• Dendrobium lindleyi, Dendrobium aggregatum (Dendrobium)
• Dendrobium nobile (Dendrobium Nobile Orchid)