Dendrobium ambotiense

General Information

Dendrobium ambotiense is a sympodial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 6cm. Each new growth has numerous thick lance shaped leaves that grow to 4cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 4cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 33mm to 176mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in March. Temperature ranges from 24C to 31C, highest in April (27C to 31C) and lowest in January (24C to 29C).

Watering

These orchids are sensitive to excessive watering and should only be watered when they look thirsty. Water infrequently and ensure that the roots are dry before watering. Keep an eye on them especially during hot weather as overwatering can lead to rot, whereas underwatering may result in wilting or shriveling, which while unattractive, will not kill the plant.

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

Repotting is best done in a pot the same size or only slightly larger than the previous one.