Systematics of Dendrobium

An infrageneric classification of the horticulturally important genus Dendrobium

Dendrobium chrysopterum Schuit. & de Vogel (Image: A. Schuiteman, Kew)

With about 1500 species, Dendrobium is the second largest orchid genus (after Bulbophyllum). Many species and especially hybrids are globally cultivated on a large scale. A satisfactory classification of Dendrobium at the infrageneric level is not yet available. DNA-based phylogenetic reconstructions need to be correlated with data on morphology and biogeography in order to provide such a classification. Once available, this classification will help ensure nomenclatural stability and give insight into the evolutionary history of the genus.

Key papers published 2006-2011:

• Schuiteman, A. & P.B. Adams. (2010) A broad look at Dendrobium. Orchadian 16: 447-459.
• Schuiteman, A. & P.B. Adams. (2011) New combinations in Dendrobium (Orchidaceae). Muelleria 29: 62-68.
• Adams, P.B. (2011) Systematics of Dendrobiinae (Orchidaceae), with special reference to Australian taxa. Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society 166: 105-126.
• Schuiteman, A. (2011) Dendrobium (Orchidaceae): To split or not to split? Garden’s Bulletin Singapore (in press).
• Schuiteman, A. (2012) Typification of infrageneric taxa in Dendrobium (Orchidaceae). Muelleria (in press).

Conferences and workshops:

• 8th International Flora Malesiana Symposium, Singapore, 23-27 August 2010.