Pink rock orchid (Dendrobium kingianum)
Description
Dendrobium kingianum is usually a lithophyte but is occasionally an epiphytic or terrestrial plant. It sometimes occurs as an individual plant but can also form large clumps. Spongy, white roots enable it to absorb water quickly from a wet rock surface whilst at other times, reflect light to avoid overheating during long dry spells. The stems or pseudobulbs may be erect or spreading but are always succulent, serving as a water storage organ during dry periods. The roots emerge from the thicker base end of the stem, which tapers towards the tip. The stems are 5–30 cm (2–10 in) long and 1–2.5 mm (0.04–0.1 in) in diameter and have between three and six leaves near the tip. The leaves are thin, green and smooth, folded along the mid-line, narrow egg-shaped and 3–10 cm (1–4 in) long and 10–20 mm (0.39–0.79 in) wide.
Taxonomic tree
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Domain: Eukarya
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Kingdom: Plantae
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Phylum:
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Class: Liliopsida
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Order: Asparagales
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Family: Orchidaceae
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Genus: Dendrobium
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