Dendrobium acuminatissimum

Also known as: The Gradually Tapering Point Dendrobium in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

The Gradually Tapering Point Dendrobium is a sympodial cool to warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 100-200cm. Each new growth has numerous rigid leaves that grow to 13cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 100-200cm. The plant forms pendant or arching growths

Flowers

Numerous short lasting blossoms appear

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 94mm to 208mm per day, heaviest in May and lightest in February. Temperature ranges from 13C to 27C, highest in April (15C to 27C) and lowest in February (13C to 25C).

Watering

These orchids prefer a constant supply of moisture, with a slight drying out between waterings. Saucers can be placed under pots to retain moisture during hot weather, however the saucers should be removed or let to dry every 1-2 weeks to prevent rot. Keep an eye on the plant especially in hot weather and look for cues of under/overwatering and adjust accordingly.

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 year round. Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round.

Potting

This plant does well mounted. Repotting is best done in a pot the same size or only slightly larger than the previous one.