The effects of different epiphytic tree species on the growth and quality of Dendrobium officinale

To explore the impact of epiphytic tree species on the growth, development, and quality formation of Dendrobium officinale, this study utilized D.officinale attached to three tree species—Quercus glauca, Schima superba, and Liquidambar formosana—as materials. It systematically compared key indicators such as growth morphology, water content, polysaccharide content, and mineral element content. Results: Different epiphytic tree species exerted significant effects on various indicators of D.officinale. In terms of growth morphology indicators, D.officinale attached to S.superba exhibited the best performance, with significantly higher stem length, stem diameter, and fresh weight compared to the other two groups. Regarding quality-influencing components, D.officinale attached to S.superba had the lowest water content (73.60%) and the highest polysaccharide content (28.36%), significantly outperforming those attached to Q.glauca and L.formosana, and exceeding the standards set by the Chinese Pharmacopoeia. Mineral element analysis revealed that while there were no significant differences in the absorption of macronutrients among D.officinale attached to different epiphytic tree species, there were notable differences in the content of micronutrients and heavy metal elements. The heavy metal content in all samples complied with the safety limits specified in the "Green Industry Standards for the Import and Export of Medicinal Plants and Preparations." D.officinale attached to S.superba had significantly higher contents of various micronutrients such as Li, Fe, and Al, as well as heavy metal elements like Cu, Cd, and Pb. Based on the comprehensive characteristics of growth volume, water content, polysaccharide content, and mineral element accumulation, this study indicates that S.superba, as an epiphytic tree species, can most effectively promote the growth, development, and intrinsic quality formation of D.officinale. It is recommended to prioritize Schima superba forests in the simulated wild cultivation of D.officinale, and the specific mechanisms warrant further in-depth research.