Dendrobium aliciae

Native to: Philippines

General Information

Dendrobium aliciae is a sympodial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Philippines.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 100cm. Each new growth has numerous leaves that grow to 9-11cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 85-100cm. The plant forms pendant or arching growths

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 23mm to 1161mm per day, heaviest in August and lightest in January. Humidity ranges from 83% to 93%, highest in July and lowest in January. Temperature ranges from 13C to 25C, highest in April (16C to 25C) and lowest in January (13C to 22C).

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.

During Spring, be sure to keep media moist.

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.

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