MONTH: March

DATE OF TALK:March 12

TIME OF TALK: 7PM via Zoom

SPEAKER NAME:Kristen Uthus

TALK TITLE:Dendrobium moniliforme: Unappreciated and Misudererstood

Dendrobium monoliforme is the type and species for the

genus and is one of the most popular orchid species in Japan. Where it is beloved for its

beautiful variegation and fragrant flowers. Here in the US, however, it is

underappreciated, and its culture is full of misinformation. I try to clarify how to grow the

species (as well as its relatives) and discuss some differences between judging in

Japan and the US.

BIO: Dr. Kristen Uthus studied both plant and animal ecology and evolution at Virginia

Commonwealth University (VCU)

and the Ohio State University (OSU). She then taught biology and ecology at several

colleges including VCU, OSU,

University of Michigan, and Eastern Michigan University. The daughter of a plant fanatic,

Kristen has been growing

orchids for over 30 years, and in 2014 she fulfilled her dream of making orchids a full-

time commitment by

purchasing NWO.

Although she enjoys growing many varieties of orchids and other plants, miniatures

remain her passion—the

weirder the better. New World Orchids specializes in Japanese species including

Neofinetia falcata and

Dendrobium moniliforme, but her miniature selection includes many other small species

including Dendrobiums,

Bulbophyllums, and Cattleyas. Although never entirely up to date, you can check out

NWO’s offerings at

www.newworldorchids.com.

Kristen lives in Manchester, MI, about an hour west of Detroit. She is supported in her

orchid pursuits by her

husband, Dr. Kevin Wehrly, and her two sons, Henry and Gus.