Scaly White Dendrobium base

[orchidquestion]

I have a dendrobium that has turned scaly-white at the base. I am new to orchids, and have no idea what it could be.
Let me describe the environment-It was given by my coworker, and my office has no windows. So while the orchid does not get direct sunlight, it gets fluorescent lighting. Perhaps lack of direct sunlight is the issue?
It is VERY cold in the office- perhaps this could be it?
The orchid arrived somewhat scaly- and it has worsened. I'm not sure if it is a fungus or something? I've read something about physan-20??

Thank you!!!

Please see orchid disease for pictures.
I'm sorry- still learning how to post properly!

[Anton]

Looks quite normal to me, that's just the "skin" it's shedding, just like you and me shedding ours. As it grows these shedding layers just peel off.

I have a couple of Hard Cane Dens doing the same right now, I just carefully help it off to allow more green areas to get sunlight for chlorophyl.

[fred]

hi and welcome to the forum
I hope that you enjoy your stay here with us

I also agree with Anton your Den looks normal.

happy chatting

[orchidquestion]

I appreciate the feedback!
I'll admit I've been quite anxious about taking care of this orchid- it's the first plant I've had under my watch, and feel like a nervous mom!

Thanks again!

[fred]

orchidquestion

just sit back and relax and dont be scared to ask us any questions.

For we are all here to help you with all your orchid knowledge.

All the members here are a great bunch and will help you along the way.

[kmarch]

Your Dendrobium looks perfectly healthy as others have said. The papery covering you see is what is left of vegetative bracts, leafy coverings, that protect the new cane as it is growing. Once grown the plant has no further use for them so they die off, dry out, and become papery. You can leave them as they are or you can remove them if they are loose.