Dendrobium speciosum
 

I have one blooming size plant (currently in bloom), and seedlings from at least two different sib crosses. I am trying to estimate the eventual cane height for each, based on their parentage.

Blackdownense - ?
Boreale - ?
Capricornicum - ?
Carnarvonense - ?
Curvicaule - I have seen 850 mm (= 33.1/2") mentioned.
Grandiflorum - ?
Hillii - ?
Pedunculatum - ?
Speciosum - ?

Can anyone help fill in the blanks?

Thanks,

Well, I know that hillii and grandiflorum have the potential to become beasts. I still remember the experience of seeing the Den speciosum var. hillii 'Don Brown' at the Santa Barbara Show when it was the centerpiece, best in show, and every other applicable award ... 9 ft (3 m) across, 6 ft (2m) tall. some 400 spikes, untold thousands of flowers. At that point I was very early in my orchid career, had just bought a modest-sized Den speciosum at another show, and had the reaction "OMG, I think I just bought a St. Bernard puppy!" ... My culture has never been that good and they grow very slowly, so my plants haven't taken over my house or yard. Still, they're not petite. I'm looking forward to a very good season, buds all over the place... likely will be posting pix in a few weeks.

Unfortunately, I don't have any specific metrics, but if I recall correctly, var. pedunculatum is on the smaller end. :)

Dendrobium speciosum – TheRockLilyMan

The Dendrobium Speciosum drop down menu has a ton of info on each variety.

Very entertaining read. Thanks.

Thank you for posting this very interesting thread. The video of Gerry was almost spellbinding with the pictures of the various cultivar. I have several of Gerry's orchids that I am anxiously waiting them to bloom!

Gerry is also very approachable about orchids (and a variety of other subjects). Unsurprisingly, he is especially fond of talking about the varieties of speciosum. And he's got a wealth of knowledge that he's always eager to share. I appreciate feedback from fellow Americans who are kind enough to share their experiences (both good and bad) with this species. But it's also good to learn how the Australians grow their plants.

Love the comparison of it being like a St. Bernard puppy! I am glad it was the Phaius that I needed and not one of these! :)