Dendrochilum latifolium

This small shrub is native to the Philippines and is an epiphyte, meaning it doesn't require soil to grow. It likes to be in semi-shade and should be watered regularly. Dendrochilum latifolium produces beautiful yellow and orange flowers that are fragrant and make for a great addition to any garden. The flowers are usually in bloom from April to October and will give your garden a touch of color.

Growing Dendrochilum latifolium in pots is possible in temperate areas where temperatures don't dip below freezing. When the temperatures in your area drop below 40°F, you should move the pot indoors to protect it. The smaller pot should have good drainage and be placed in a bright spot but without direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist, but not soggy, by misting the leaves regularly. Fertilize every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer in spring and summer.

In colder regions, it is best to keep the pot of Dendrochilum latifolium in a heated greenhouse. Make sure to provide it with lots of indirect light, mist the leaves regularly, and water when the top few inches of soil are dry. Fertilize every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer in spring and summer and water with lukewarm water at room temperature. Keeping the pot inside during the winter is also recommended.

Dendrochilum magnum

The grandest species of the 'Chain of gold' genus. Dendrochilum magnum is a medium sized, cool growing epiphyte, which can reach a height of 70 cm. It blooms on an apical, erect then pendant, wiry, 50cm long, many flowered inflorescence with the fragrant flowers.

The light must be filtered or diffused. The plant should not be exposed to direct sunlight at noon. A constant strong ventilation is necessary. Precipitation is very abundant throughout the year, with a short, slightly drier spring period.

Dendrophylax funalis

An amazing and unusual miniature Angraecoid orchid that somehow reached the Caribbean, a completely leafless orchid whose thick long greenish roots perform photosynthesis.

New roots and 4" spikes emerge from a terminal stem, up to 6 large blooms appear on each spike, the 2" flowers are lime green with a large flat bi-lobed white lip and a green 2" spur, highly fragrant and described as smelling fruity and reminiscent of an apple.

Dendrophylax is a genus of leafless neotropical orchids native to Mexico, Central America, the West Indies, and Florida. The plants of this genus are unusual in that they consist of masses of photosynthetic roots anchored in trees with a highly reduced stem and ephemeral leaves which have been reduced to scales. The bulk of these plants consists only of flat, cord-like, green roots with distinctive "track marks". These white track marks are called pneumatodes and function in much the same manner as stomata allowing the photosynthetic roots to perform gas exchange to support photosynthesis.

Disa sp.

This species is a terrestrial or lithophytic plant. Due to Cape Mountain's proximity to the South-African coastline, the habitat of most Disa species in cultivation is subject to strong wind and rain. In their local habitat the plants have their feet in cool streaming rainwater, expert growers mimic this by placing the pots on watersaucers with gravel in it.

Dockrillia rigida, Dendrobium desmotrichoides

Dockrillia rigida, known commonly as the Rigid-Leafed Dockrillia, is a small shrub native to Australia that will typically reach heights of 2 to 5 feet. This epiphyte prefers semi-shade and moderate water, making it an ideal choice for home gardeners. It is easily distinguished by its vivid yellow, orange fragrant flowers and its succulent-like leaves.

Dockrillia rigida is a popular choice known for its resistance to both drought and freezing temperatures when taken care of properly. As such, it can also be grown in USDA Zone 9-11 outdoors. It grows best in full sun or partial shade, in a well-draining soil. It is important to note that it will not tolerate standing water and has a medium water requirement.

When grown in a pot, it is important to give extra care and attention in cooler climates or for those growing it indoors. When the temperature drops below 40°F, even for a short time, the plant should be protected from frost and moved indoors. Those planting outside in cold temperate regions should build a protective wall around the pot that is layered with a thick insulation layer of peat, bark or hay.

Additionally, it should always be kept warm and in a humid environment, as the plant cannot tolerate long periods of low humidity and extreme temperatures. Soil should be allowed to dry out before watering and fertilized lightly in spring. It is important to water thoroughly and evenly across the flowering season.

Overall, the Rigid-Leafed Dockrillia is an attractive, easy to manage plant. As long as the proper precautions are taken to ensure better growth during cold temperatures, it can add a burst of color and fragrance anywhere in your garden.

Dracula simia

These rare orchids only grow in the cloud forests of southeastern Ecuador and Peru at elevations of 1,000-2,000 meters on the side of mountains.

Dracula vespertilio, Masdevallia vespertilio

This small epiphytic plant is rarely seen in cultivation and is an intriguing part of the Dracula genus. Dracula vespertilio (Bat-Shaped Dracula) is a unique and small plant, reaching only 2-5 feet in height. Its unusual beauty comes from its twisted, bat-wing-like leaves. Its unusual color range from olive green to pale pink, which is one of the features that make this plant so remarkable.

Dracula vespertilio is native to Central America and can be found from Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Colombia and Ecuador. It prefers to grow in semi-shade and prefers high humidity and temperatures between 55 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

This small plant is rarely seen in cultivation, but if you are feeling up to the challenge of growing it, some specialized care is needed. Dracula vespertilio is hardy in USDA Zone 9-11 and should be planted in an orchid or bark-based soil mix. This soil should be well drained and have lots of aeration. You'll need to add a course chip of bark to the top of the soil mix and keep it moist throughout the growing season.

If you live in a colder region, planting in a pot is recommended and you can bring it in once the temperature drops just above freezing. During this time, you can water the pot and then let it dry out. This plant should never be kept constantly wet, especially during colder and darker months.

All in all, Dracula vespertilio (Bat-Shaped Dracula) is a rare and beautiful plant that can be a rewarding challenge to grow. If you follow these tips, you should be able to enjoy this unique plant all year round!

Elleanthus myrosmatis

Elleanthus myrosmatis is a small shrub that can thrive in a variety of soil types, including sandy soil and bark mixed with perlite. It prefers full sun or semi-shade and requires regular watering to stay healthy. This plant can grow to be 2 to 5 feet tall and produces beautiful yellow and orange flowers.

Elleanthus myrosmatis is best suited for cultivation in USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11, although it can also be grown in pots in areas with colder winters. When planting this shrub in a pot, be sure to give it enough space to grow comfortably and keep the soil moist with regular watering and periodic fertilization. Pruning the shrub can help to encourage healthy and fuller growth.

Overall, Elleanthus myrosmatis is a beautiful and low-maintenance plant that can add a touch of color and life to any garden or outdoor space

Encyclia sp.

Encyclia sp., or Encyclia as it is commonly known, is a small shrub that typically grows between 2-5 feet in height. It is native to the Caribbean and Mexico and is most commonly seen in USDA zones 9-11. Although it can be grown in full sun, Encyclia prefers semi-shaded environments and when grown correctly, has a variety of uses.

One of the most distinctive characteristics of Encyclia is its unusual range of flower colors, ranging from blue, lavender and purple. These flowers typically bloom between late winter and early summer and require full sun to reach their peak. To encourage new blooms, regular pruning and cutting back of dead flowers is recommended.

Encyclia is an epiphyte, which means it typically grows on trees, and has a root system that does not penetrate deep into the ground. It prefers a slightly acidic soil with good drainage and should be kept in bright light but away from direct sunlight. Additionally, it will benefit from regular fertilizing and mulching during the growing season.

In colder regions, growing Encyclia in a pot is possible, but it does require additional care to ensure successful blooms and growth. It should be planted in an appropriately-sized container with well-drained soil, ensuring it never stays wet for too long. A heated greenhouse would be ideal, but in the absence of that, the plants should be kept in a bright but cool area during the winter, while otherwise being kept warm. Pruning should also be continued during the winter to prevent any undesirable growth, and regular fertilizing should be carried out throughout the year.

Overall, Encyclia is easily maintained with the right care and provides a range of impressive colors to any garden. With proper attention, Encyclia can thrive in even the coldest of regions, providing a splash of color when it blooms.

Epidendrum sp.

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

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Epidendrum is a diverse neotropical genus that has flowers characterized by a frilly or fringed lip. This feature is occasionally diagnostic to distinguish between species. These orchids are widely cultivated and may be hybridized with Sophronitis, another South American genus. The flowers are usually small and delicately colored, and borne on a dense inflorescence. Many species have a fragrance.

See Orchid page for pictures of different orchids and care info.

See video about Ground Orchids.