Etymology: Dendrobium (from the Greek dendron = tree and bios = life, referring to its epiphytic lifestyle on trees); Michel Vallee (the registered name of this hybrid); subuliferum = awl-bearing (Latin subula = awl and -fer = bearing, referring to the awl-like pointed leaves); vexillarius = standard-bearer (Latin vexillum = flag/banner, referring to the striking, brightly colored flower shape).
Origin / Distribution: Cultivar. The parent species involved originate from the cool, humid highland cloud forests of Papua New Guinea (section Oxyglossum).
Description & Notes: This outstanding registration (Dendrobium Michel Vallee) combines two of the most spectacular miniature species in the section Oxyglossum. The parent Dendrobium subuliferum contributes its delicate, grass-like growth habit and bright white to cream-colored, exceptionally long-lasting flowers with a darker center. Dendrobium vexillarius adds a somewhat more robust growth structure, intensely vivid colors (ranging from bright red and pink to yellow and orange), and impressive flower size relative to the plant. The seedlings promise highly decorative dwarf plants with dense growth and waxy flowers that last for months. Due to its need for consistently moist conditions and cool temperatures, this hybrid is perfectly suited after deflasking to cultivation in display cases or terrariums, or mounted on cork with moist sphagnum moss.