Dendrobium linguiforme – The Tongue Orchid

Hoya tengchongensis is a rare species of Hoya native to Tengchong County in Yunnan, China. This epiphytic plant thrives in warm, humid forests, often growing on trees or rocks. It features thick, succulent-like leaves and produces delicate, star-shaped flowers with a creamy-white to pale pink corolla and a striking red or purple corona. Like other Hoya species, it exudes a sweet fragrance, particularly at night, to attract pollinators.

Distinctive Features

• Unique Leaves: The plant’s thick, leathery leaves are small and shaped like a tongue, hence its common name.
• Fragrant Blooms: Produces clusters of small, white, sweetly fragrant flowers in spring.
• Epiphytic Growth: Naturally grows on trees and rocks, forming dense mats over time.

Care Tips

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light or dappled sunlight. Can tolerate some direct morning sun.
• Water: Water sparingly; allow the roots to dry out between waterings.
• Humidity: Thrives in moderate to high humidity but is adaptable to drier conditions.
• Temperature: Prefers warm temperatures ranging from 10°C to 30°C.
• Fertiliser: Feed with a diluted orchid fertiliser every two weeks during the growing season.
• Potting: Best grown mounted on wood or in a well-draining orchid mix.
• Propagation: Can be propagated through division, separating older clumps.

Additional Notes

• Well-suited for growing in hanging mounts or on bark slabs.
• Highly drought-tolerant once established, making it ideal for xeric orchid collections.
• Non-toxic to pets, making it a safe choice for homes with animals.

Dendrobium linguiforme is a remarkable orchid with its fleshy leaves and beautifully fragrant white flowers. Its ability to thrive in varied conditions and its low maintenance make it a great addition to any orchid collection. Whether grown on a mount or in a pot, this resilient species provides year-round interest and charm.