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king orchid
Scientific Name: Broughtonia domingensis
Family: Orchidaceae
Category: Monocot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Dendrobium speciosum: The King Orchid
Dendrobium speciosum, a spectacular Australian native, is commonly known as the King Orchid, outstanding dendrobium, or, somewhat misleadingly, as the Rock Lily or Sydney Rock Orchid.
Considerations for Pets
- This orchid often grows in large clumps, sometimes entirely encircling tree trunks, which might present a climbing challenge for pets.
- The term 'Rock Lily' suggests it can be grown on rocks, which might make it accessible to pets in outdoor environments.
- The blade-shaped leaves could be tempting for some pets to chew.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Dendrobium speciosum
- Common Names: King Orchid, Rock Lily, Sydney Rock Orchid, outstanding dendrobium
Distribution and Habitat
- Dendrobium speciosum is a widespread Australian orchid.
- It is native to NSW (New South Wales), but is considered outside of its native range on Lord Howe Island, where it is a declared species.
- It can be found growing on rocks and trees.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- It is an epiphytic orchid that grows in large clumps.
- It produces long flower shoots surrounded by blade-shaped leaves.
- It blooms in early spring with bright five-petaled flowers.
Ecological Role
- On Lord Howe Island, Dendrobium speciosum is considered an invasive species.
Quirky Facts
- To the early Greeks, the orchid represented virility.
- The Chinese called the orchid "the plant of the king's [house]."