Diplocaulobium (Reichb. f.) Kränzlin
in Pflanzenreich Orch.-Mon.-Dendr.45:331 (1910)

Introduction: Some hundred species are known centered in New Guinea and extending to Malaysia and Australia. Kränzlin elevated this sub-section of Dendrobium to genus rank.

Derivation of genus name: Greek, diplos (double), caulos (a stem), bios (life). Refers to the dimorphic form of the pseudobulbs of the type species.

Type species: Diplocaulobium nitidissimum (H.G. Reichb.)Kraenzlin

Characteristics of the genus: These epiphytic plants are relatively small with clustered pseudobulbs and solitary leaves. Flowers are borne singly and these may last often only one day. The often star-shaped flowers are quite large and when the plant flowers it may flower profusely, all at the same time. One of the most spectacular species of the genus is D. regale which occurs in the high altitude mist forest. Flowers are dark rose-red, the lip is white with purple stripes, the column is white.

Species line drawing: Diplocaulobium nitidissimum Kraenzlin
drawn by N. Howcroft ex New Ireland Province

Diplocaulobium hydrophyllum
drawn by N. Howcroft

Diplocaulobium auricolor (J.J. Smith) Hunt & Summerhayes
drawn by N. Howcroft ex Fergusson Island Milne Bay Province

Diplocaulobium jadunae
drawn by N. Howcroft. ex Gogol, Madang Province

Habitat: The species in this genus are found from sea level to high alpine forests.

Conservation status: not considered threatened

Photos: Diplocaulobium species