Coelogyne tenella (syn. Dendrochilum tenellum)

Coelogyne tenella, long grown as Dendrochilum tenellum, is endemic to the Philippines at around 1000 to 2300 metres. Its leaves are almost needle-like – round in cross-section and only about a millimetre wide – and short spikes of around 30 tiny white to pale yellow flowers arise from near the tips of the newer leaves.

What to expect

• Flowers: Tiny, white to pale yellow, in two neat rows on short spikes.
• Plant: Clumps of fine, grass-like leaves on small tapered pseudobulbs.
• Character: A delicate, grassy plant valued as much for its habit as its flowers.

Growing notes

• Temperature: Cool to cold. From high elevations, so summer heat is the main risk.
• Light: Bright filtered light.
• Water: Keep evenly moist.
• Humidity & air: High humidity with good air movement.

About the name

Formerly Dendrochilum tenellum. When it moved to Coelogyne in 2021 the ending changed to match the feminine genus name, giving tenella (‘delicate’).

Shipping & condition

Supplied at flowering size – either a mature plant or a division from a plant that has already flowered – grown on in the Dandenong Ranges. Plants are packed on Sunday and sent on Monday. Buds and flowers cannot be guaranteed at time of shipping due to seasonal and environmental factors.