Cirrhopetalum dentiferum

Also known as: The Toothed Cirrhopetalum in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Satun - Thailand

General Information

The Toothed Cirrhopetalum is a sympodial warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Thailand.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 0.3-14cm. Each new growth has a single thick leaf that grows to 2.5-18cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 1.5-3.5cm. The plant tends to climb or sprawl with each new growth

Substrate(s)

• Coarse
• Medium
• Fine
• Bark

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 56mm to 325mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in February. Humidity ranges from 66% to 84%, highest in October and lowest in February. Temperature ranges from 19C to 31C, highest in March (21C to 31C) and lowest in January (19C to 28C).

Watering

These orchids prefer a wet-dry cycle between waterings, they should be watered frequently but only when the moisture is approaching dryness, where the pot feels light and/or the media looks dry. Keep an eye on mounted orchids in warm weather as they may dehydrate quickly.

Keep moisture levels up during hot weather as the plant is prone to dehydration

Fertiliser

Apply liquid based fertiliser per recommended directions. They can benefit from a high phosphate fertiliser leading up to flowering season, followed by a high nitrogen fertiliser when new growth appears, and a balanced fertiliser in other times. These orchids can also tolerate slow release fertiliser applied 1-2 pellets per cup (250ml) of media.

Use balanced fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round. Use a high Nitrogen fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Use a high Phosphorous fertiliser during Summer.

Potting

This plant does well mounted to Cork slabs. Repotting is best done annually.