Dendrobium dolichophyllum 'Gigantor'

Dendrobium dolichophylla ‘Gigantor’

‘Gigantor’ has been part of the Down Under collection since Neil Finch’s time, I remember Brian always bringing it to a Central Coast ANOS group meeting and being absolutely captivated by the sheer size of the individual flower. I think that is what is most impressive about this example of the species, its size. We have now grown this plant for almost three years and actually it was only just repotted in December 2016, hence I am amazed that it has flowered so well this season. It is extremely early this year and I believe t

‘Gigantor’ has been part of the Down Under collection since Neil Finch’s time, I remember Brian always bringing it to a Central Coast ANOS group meeting and being absolutely captivated by the sheer size of the individual flower. I think that is what is most impressive about this example of the species, its size. We have now grown this plant for almost three years and actually it was only just repotted in December 2016, hence I am amazed that it has flowered so well this season. It is extremely early this year and I believe that is because we came out of a cold and dark extended autumn into this very warm weather.

Dendrobium dolichophylla ‘Gigantor’ lives in what we call our ‘tunnel house’, which receives high light throughout most of the day; the area is covered by what is now most likely 50% black shadecloth. Watering occurs once a week during winter (depending on rainfall) and 2-3 times a week during the summer months. In the nursery we use two main fertilisers; GF9 and EX7, these are very similar to Campbell’s Blue and Yellow. This plant is grown in 80% number 3 Kiwi Orchid Bark and 20% coarse scoria.

There have been a few hybrids made with this plant and D. James Garner in particular has showcased its immense ability to breed showbench quality orchids.