King orchid, Rock Lily, Rock Orchid
Dendrobium speciosum

Family: Orchidaceae

What it is like

A large clump forming orchid. Clumps can be 2 m across. The false bulbs are about 40 cm long. They are swollen at the base and taper to the tip. The leaves are 25 cm long and 8 cm wide. They are oval and about 5 occur together. They are produced near the top of the false stem. The flowers occur in masses. They are creamy-white or yellow and 3.5 cm across. They are in clusters along a stalk which can be 70 cm along.

There are about 900-1200 Dendrobium species orchids.

Where it is found

It grows in tropical and subtropical places. It grows in coastal areas. It grows on rock faces and sandstone cliffs. It suits hardiness zones 9-11. It suits Mediterranean climates.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia (country/location of origin)

How it is used for food

The false bulbs are cooked by roasting and eaten. The stems are grated and dried and stored for later use.

Edible parts

Pseudo-bulb, stems, flowers

How it is grown

Plants can be grown by dividing large clumps. They can also be grown from aerial growth. It is possible to grow plants from seed.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Callista speciosa (Sm.) Kuntze; Thelychiton speciosus (Sm.) M. A. Clem. & D. L. Jones; and others