Inobulbum munificum (now Dendrobium munificum)

Question

Can you give me any care information on growing the unusual orchid, Inobulbum munificum (now Dendrobium munificum)? Does it have any special needs? —Fred Hammet

Dendrobium munificum. photo © 2003 Greg Allikas

Answer

Inobulbum munificum (now Dendrobium munificum) can be grown similarly to the tropical members of that genus, or as for cattleyas, with strong light and intermediate (80º F days, 60º F nights) temperatures. Allow it to dry out slightly between waterings. As with many bulbous, seasonally active dendrobiums, this species will do best if allowed a drier resting period with little or no nitrogen after the pseubobulbs are mature. Inobulbon (now Dendrobium) must rate as one of the most bizarrely hairy of all orchids.— Ned Nash