Purple Dendrobium

[soltrad]

I have just acquired a Denbrobium with purplish leaves. The specie grow naturally here in Solomon Islands. It has not bloomed yet neither have i seen the colour of flowers. However, I was told they are also purplish in color.

I need help in identifying the specie if possible

[jerrymeola]

Normally there is no chance of identifying an orchid from the flower, but with species orchids it limits the number of possibilities.

I am certain there are a number of reference books on Solomon Island native orchids and you should start there. Here in the US I would start with a college library or if possible a botany department. I do not know what resources are available to you.

Orchids of the Solomon Islands and Bougainville B. A. Lewis and P. J. Cribb

Kew: Royal Botanic Gardens, 1991
is a book that would be a good reference if you can find it. I believe it is in publication and available for sale.

I would search the Internet for photos of Solomon Island orchids but every search I made came up with the book I listed. Try several different search engines. They get different results.